Some Myths Surrounding Root Canal Treatments
The mere thought of undergoing root canal treatment can scare the living daylights out of you if you are not familiar with the procedure. Misconceptions have spread that root canal treatments are painful and therefore, should be avoided as far as possible.
If the treatment is recommended, you should put your mind at ease and consider the benefits of root canal therapy rather than believe the myths about root canal. This blog is looking at some myths that have been floating around for decades, showing no signs of being dispelled. We will dispel these myths to convince you the treatment can preserve your tooth and not cause unnecessary problems.
What Are the Myths about Root Canal?
Root Canals Are Painful
Decades ago, root canal treatments were indeed painful states the American Association of Endodontists. Presently with modern technology and advanced anesthetics, these treatments are just as painful as having a tooth filled. You can put your anxiety at ease by understanding what to expect while undergoing a root canal.
Illnesses Are Caused by Root Canals
No evidence is available to prove root canals cause illnesses. The proof is, however, available to show that people undergoing this treatment reduce their risks of developing diseases, unlike people who avoid the procedure.
Crowns Are the Cause for Teeth Needing Root Canals
There is a perception among people that a crowned tooth will eventually need a root canal. The reverse is true because a tooth undergoing root canal needs a crown to protect it. Crowned teeth that require a root canal could have an abscess or decay beneath the crown, necessitating the need for the treatment as the decay has reached the pulp.
Pregnant Women Cannot Have Root Canals.
This is just another myth because pregnant women are undergoing treatment quite often. The tale is promoted because an x-ray is needed before the procedure, and the exposure to radiation is minimal. Most importantly, the x-ray is aimed at the mouth and not the abdomen. Pregnant women undergoing a root canal will receive protection against the x-ray from the dentist if informed in advance.
Root Canals Are Worse Than Having Tooth Extracted
Preserving your natural teeth, if possible, is always the better option. Artificial teeth cannot replace the looks and functionality of a natural tooth, and therefore it is essential to consider the possibility of having root canal treatment. The success rate of this endodontic treatment provided by dental arts St Pete Beach is 95 percent, and the teeth undergoing the treatment can last for a lifetime. Replacing an extracted tooth with implants or bridges require more time for treating and result in additional procedures to the neighboring teeth and supporting tissue.
No Tooth Pain — No Root Canal
A throbbing toothache necessitates the need for root canal therapy. The therapy becomes necessary even when the presence of pain is missing. Dr. José Matos of Dental Arts St Pete Beach is specially trained to test the tooth to determine whether damages or infections have affected the pulp. If the test results are positive, preserving the tooth will only be possible by root canal treatment.
Have Undergone Root Canal Treatment — Is My Tooth Restored Completely?
After undergoing root canal therapy, significant importance must be provided to schedule a follow-up appointment with the dentist to have the tooth restored permanently. The tooth becomes fragile and brittle after the treatment making it prone to fractures and cracking. Having a permanent filling or a dental crown will help to protect the tooth from future damages.
The myths discussed must be relegated to history, and the honor for making them accessible can perhaps be given to the neighborhood barber who generally performed tooth extractions and root canals in the days gone by. Modern-day endodontists are qualified professionals who use advanced technology and anesthetics to ensure this treatment is not as painful as described but is one that can save the tooth from extraction.
You have a choice of undergoing root canal therapy as recommended by your dentist or to prefer extraction resulting in additional treatments being required to replace the missing tooth in your mouth. When you calculate the time and money you spend for tooth restorations, you will realize the myths are nothing but MYTHS.
