The root canal, though one of the most common dental procedures, is one of the most often misunderstood. The dreaded root canal is only perceived as a negative experience due to the myths that people believe about it, which are not based in fact.
If you need a root canal, have no fear. Review the common misconceptions about the procedure and learn the facts so that you can be fully informed and prepared for your upcoming root canal therapy.
Myth: Root Canals Are Painful
Fact: Root Canals Relieve Pain
The procedure for getting a root canal is no more painful than a simple cavity filling. Local anesthesia is used to make you comfortable, numbing the nerves in and around the tooth so that you don’t feel any pain. If you are anxious, sedation can be provided to help you feel more relaxed.
During a root canal the nerves inside the tooth are removed, relieving pain associated with an infection. You will most likely feel better after a root canal than you did beforehand. When performed proactively for a tooth that is at-risk of infection, a root canal can prevent pain.
Myth: The Root Canal Procedure is Long
Fact: Most Root Canals Take Under an Hour
A root canal can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes. The average root canal procedure will take less than an hour. Only complex root canals may take closer to an hour and a half.
There are many factors that affect the length of the procedure, such as the size of the tooth, the complexity of the root structure, and the location of the tooth. Larger teeth with more extensive root canal systems may take longer to clean out in order to ensure that all of the infection and dental pulp is removed.
Myth: A Root Canal Can Make You Sick
Fact: There is No Research to Support This
While a tooth infection is caused by bacteria, there is no reason that the root canal procedure will cause you to get sick. Precautions are taken when removing infected tissue to prevent the spread of infection.
You are more likely to get sick if you put off or avoid a root canal. An infected tooth will only worsen, and the infection could enter your bloodstream and travel to your other organs. Failure to treat an at-risk tooth, such as a cracked tooth or a deep cavity, is likely to result in an infection.
Myth: The Root of the Tooth Is Removed During a Root Canal
Fact: A Root Canal Allows the Root to Stay in Place
A root canal does not involve removing the root of the tooth. This would leave the tooth completely unsupported and it would not survive. The goal of a root canal is to preserve the root of the tooth so that it can stay in place, providing support for the remaining tooth material and the crown that will be placed over it.
Myth: It’s Cheaper to Have the Tooth Pulled
Fact: A Root Canal Can Save You Money
The procedure to have a tooth extracted may cost less than a root canal up front. However, just removing the tooth without replacing it can cause a myriad of dental problems, such as shifting teeth and bone loss in the jaw.
Saving the natural tooth with a root canal will cost less than replacing the tooth with a bridge or dental implant. A root canal is covered by most dental insurance plans. It also preserves the natural look and function of your tooth, keeping your smile intact and maintaining your chewing capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
How long can I put off a root canal?
It is in the best interest of your oral health to have a root canal taken care of as soon as your dentist recommends it. Waiting can cause an infection to develop or worsen, lessening the chances that your tooth can be saved.
Do you have options for anxious patients?
If you feel anxious or nervous about getting a root canal, we provide sedation options including nitrous oxide and oral sedation to help you feel more relaxed and comfortable.
At Sterling Endodontics our goal is to save your natural teeth whenever possible in a caring and compassionate environment. We are happy to discuss every aspect of your care to ensure that you are fully informed. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.