Chances are that whenever you’ve heard the words “root canal” brought up, it wasn’t in a very positive light. Many patients are afraid of being told that they need root canal therapy, but what they don’t realize is that these fears may be based on faulty information. There are quite a few myths about root canals floating around, and your dentist is here to help dispel 4 of them.
Myth 1: Root Canal Therapy is a Painful Treatment
In various forms of media, root canal therapy is often depicted as a particularly painful procedure. However, many patients who have had a root canal performed have found that it’s actually no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. The pain associated with the treatment largely comes from the infection that’s already present in the tooth. The reality is that having root canal therapy performed can help you find lasting relief.
Myth 2: Extracting a Tooth is Better Than Having a Root Canal Performed
Some individuals are so nervous about getting root canal therapy that they may think that having the tooth removed entirely would be preferable. However, dentists typically advise against undergoing tooth extraction when the tooth in question can still be saved.
Taking an infected tooth out of your mouth may get rid of the source of your current problem, but it can lead to other oral health issues. Your remaining teeth might start to drift toward the newly empty space, throwing off the alignment of your bite and causing all sorts of problems as a result. Having a root canal performed often means you’ll be able to keep your tooth and won’t have to worry about the consequences of tooth extraction.
Myth 3: You Only Need a Root Canal If Your Tooth Hurts
One of the most common signs that a root canal is necessary is severe pain within your tooth. If you’re not currently experiencing any such pain, you may assume that there’s no need to have a root canal performed. However, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes an infection can be present without causing any discomfort. Your dentist can take X-rays of your tooth to determine whether a root canal is needed.
Myth 4: Root Canals Could Increase Your Risk of Cancer
If you’ve ever heard this particular root canal myth, rest assured that there’s no credible evidence to back it up. It’s based on assumptions made by a dentist in the early 20th century. However, the American Medical Association has found that root canal therapy does not cause any increase in an individual’s chances of developing cancer. As such, there’s no need to worry when you head to your dentist’s office to have this important procedure done.
About the Author
Dr. Andrea Csok went to the Ohio State University College of Dentistry, and she has gained valuable experience over the course of her career by working at multiple dental offices. At her current Pepper Pike office, Dental & Cosmetic Solutions, she’s able to save infected teeth with root canal therapy. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Csok, visit her website or call (216) 292-3600.