When you hear the words “Root Canal Treatment,” what comes to mind? This dental procedure has a bad reputation and is often perceived as painful, uncomfortable, and for some, even anxiety-inducing. To make matters worse, there’s a flawed study from the 1920s that falsely links root canal treatment to illnesses such as arthritis, breast cancer, heart problems, and more. Talk about a tarnished image!

However, it’s now 2023, and any misconceptions you may have had about root canal treatments can easily be dispelled. So, fear not, because we’re here to debunk some myths surrounding root canal treatment! Keep reading, as this blog will provide you with the essential information about root canal treatments, helping you overcome any apprehensions you might have.

But before we get into those famous myths, let’s talk about root canal treatment!

What Is a Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure designed to save a severely damaged or infected tooth from extraction. 

The procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp (the innermost part of the tooth) and carefully cleaning, disinfecting, and shaping the inner chamber. Once this is done, the space is filled and sealed with a biocompatible material to prevent further infection. A crown or restoration is often placed on top of the treated tooth to restore its strength and function.

Root canal treatments are crucial for alleviating pain and preventing the spread of infection. The common symptoms that indicate the need for a root canal include persistent toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, swelling around the affected area, and even the presence of an abscess. 

By undergoing a root canal procedure, patients can retain their natural teeth, maintain proper chewing function, and avoid potential complications that can arise from leaving an untreated infection.

Now that you’re well-acquainted with the nuances of root canal treatment – its purpose, process, and benefits – let’s dive into the engaging realm of myth-busting!

4 Famous Myths About Root Canal Treatment

There are many myths surrounding root canal treatment, and in this article, we’ll delve into some of the most famous ones!

Root Canal Treatments Are Painful

Probably the most famous myth about root canal treatment is it being a painful procedure. In reality, root canal treatments are actually very comfortable! 

The discomfort actually originates from the infected tooth under treatment. Root canal procedures are painless and aim to alleviate the pain stemming from the infected tooth. Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb both the tooth and its vicinity, ensuring you experience no sensation during the process.

Root Canal Treatments Cause Illnesses

Okay, let’s revisit the study from the 1920s that we mentioned earlier. This study is highly flawed. You can put your worries to rest because root canal treatments do not elevate your risk of contracting any illness or disease! There is no scientific evidence connecting root canal treatments to conditions such as breast cancer, heart problems, or arthritis.

Getting a Tooth Extraction Is Better Than Getting a Root Canal Treatment

Tooth extraction isn’t always the solution for a painful tooth. Preserving your natural tooth is consistently the preferable choice, and a root canal treatment achieves precisely that!

In fact, removing a tooth without substituting it with an implant can result in malocclusions. These are misalignments or improper relationships between the teeth of the upper and lower dental arches as they come together during jaw closure.

Root Canal Treatments Remove the Root of the Tooth

Don’t fret over this misconception; root canal treatments do not interfere with the root of your tooth! Despite its name, a root canal treatment solely addresses the infected pulp within the tooth.

During a root canal procedure, the dentist painstakingly removes the infected or inflamed tissue, referred to as the pulp, from within the crown and the internal passages of the roots. This comprehensive removal process also encompasses the tooth’s nerve. However, the roots themselves are intentionally conserved in their original placement. The rationale behind this deliberate preservation stems from their indispensable function – these roots serve as the essential anchors securing your teeth firmly within your jawbone.

Key Takeaway

The myths surrounding root canal treatment have led to an unwarranted negative perception of this essential dental procedure. Contrary to these misconceptions, root canal treatments are anything but painful; they provide comfortable procedures tailored to alleviate the discomfort stemming from infected teeth, facilitated by advances in dental practices and local anesthesia. Moreover, contemporary scientific research has discredited groundless claims linking root canal treatments to illnesses such as breast cancer, heart problems, or arthritis.

For those in need of a root canal treatment, look no further than Elevate Dental! Our team of specialists is dedicated to preserving your tooth. Reach out to us today! Our clinics are outfitted with cutting-edge dental technology to ensure your root canal procedure is a comfortable and reassuring experience.