Myths About Root Canals

Has your dentist recommended that you receive endodontic therapy? Endodontics involves treating the insides of teeth – specifically the root canal and adjacent tissues.

Endodontic therapy encompasses root canal treatment that helps restore comfort and oral function. Even though receiving treatment for infected root canals is commonplace, many people are misinformed on endodontics and how it is beneficial.

Following are three common myths about root canal treatment.

Myth #1 Decay is the Only Cause of Infected Root Canals

While untreated tooth decay contributes to many infected root canals, it is important to note that a root canal can become infected any time it is exposed to debris and bacteria in the mouth. This means that a chipped or cracked tooth can develop an infected root canal.

The materials inside a root canal such as the nerve ending and dental pulp cannot fight off infection-causing bacteria. Once a root canal is infected, the tooth must be treated quickly to prevent the need for its removal.

Myth #2 Root Canal Therapy is Painful

Many people unfairly associate root canal therapy with discomfort. Modern dental technology and treatment techniques help dentists reduce invasiveness and discomfort during many procedures, including endodontic therapy.

When performing a root canal, our team administers local anesthetics and other medications, if necessary, to ensure that our guests are comfortable throughout treatment.

Many patients are uncomfortable when they visit our practice for root canal therapy. This is because the nerve ending of the root canal is inflamed. Fortunately, root canal therapy will remedy this discomfort and prevent future complications when performed in a timely manner.

Myth #3 It’s Better to Pull a Tooth

Foregoing treatment for a root canal typically results in the need for extraction because infected root canals are prone to forming abscesses. While teeth can be extracted when diseased, it is best to retain biological tooth structure whenever possible.

Having a root canal prevents the need for a tooth’s removal. Keeping one’s tooth also eliminates the need for a prosthetic like a bridge or dental implant.

For additional information or to reserve an appointment, contact the office of Dr. Daggula today.