Hearing you need a root canal can be a little frightening, especially if you’ve heard scary but untrue rumors about this tooth-saving treatment. But the good news is that despite what you might have been told, this procedure is nothing to fear. In fact, the truth about these five common myths will leave you smiling!
Myth #1: Root Canals Hurt
Though this isn’t always the case, chances are if you need a root canal you may already be in pain. The great news is that your root canal treatment will always begin with your dentist numbing your mouth. This means that you won’t feel any part of the procedure itself. Once the numbness has worn off, you may experience some soreness while you recover; however, most patients find that their tooth is much more comfortable than it was while it was infected. Not only that, but it usually only lasts a few days, and is typically well managed with OTC pain relievers.
Myth #2: Root Canals Cause Cancer
Recently, a documentary claimed that root canals cause cancer. As a result, many studies have been conducted and found this to be false and root canals to be completely safe. Unfortunately, however, this rumor is still popular online and has naturally caused a lot of fear and confusion, but thankfully this is one myth that’s simply not true. Root canals do not cause cancer.
Myth #3 Extraction is Better than a Root Canal
Unfortunately, in some cases a tooth may be too damaged to receive root canal therapy and will need to be extracted. However, if it is still possible to save the tooth, this is always preferred. Keeping as many of your natural teeth for as long as possible is better for your oral and overall health, and with a root canal, you can preserve the health of your natural tooth for a lifetime!
Myth #4 Root Canals aren’t Permanent
You may have heard that root canals don’t last or aren’t a permanent treatment, but this is one myth that’s simply false. Root canals permanently remove tooth infections, providing lasting protection against tooth loss.
In certain cases, a root canal may need to be redone if some of the infection was missed, but usually the second treatment is a success. Though your dentist does their very best to clear away as much infected pulp as they can the first time, because teeth are so small, some can be very easily missed.
Myth #5 You Don’t Need a Root Canal Unless Your Tooth Hurts
While yes, root canals do help relieve the pain of an infected tooth, you don’t have to be in pain to need one. In some cases, your tooth may be so damaged that it has no feeling left, so even though it doesn’t hurt, your tooth could pose an even greater risk to the rest of your body than you thought because the infection may have already spread!
Remember, there’s lots of misinformation out there about root canals, but the great news is that this procedure is extremely safe, effective, and can save your smile from further infection and even tooth loss!
About Dr. Goldberg
Dr. Daniel Goldberg studied physiology and psychology at Western University in London, ON and earned his DDS degree from the University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry in 2017. Since graduating, he has continued to pursue his dental education by taking numerous continuing education courses in sedation, endodontics, digital dentistry, and dental implant dentistry. To make an appointment for a root canal, please visit our website, or call Queensville Dental at 289-366-3024.