5 Root Canal Myths
It is common for a root canal to be used as the comparison with some horrible event. A root canal procedure has become the most feared of the dental procedures. This article will make the effort to dispel the myths surrounding the effective restorative procedure.
The doctors and the team of oral healthcare professionals at Chaparral Valley Dental, located near in Calgary, Alberta, want to educate their patients, current and new, for an understanding of root canal therapy.
Basically, a root canal, or an endodontic treatment, is the removal of the infected pulp from a tooth. Pulp is the living, bony connective tissue inside of a tooth.
When the infected pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected. The tooth is then filled and sealed with a rubbery-type substance called gutta-percha. For protection, the tooth is restored with a crown or a filling to continue with full functionality.
Below are five of the most common myths surrounding the root canal procedure.
Myth #1: Root Canals are Painful
People connect a root canal with pain. However, when a root canal is performed correctly with the use of modern anesthetics, a root canal will not be any more painful than a filling.
Myth #2: Root Canals are Expensive
Along with the association of pain, people also fear a root canal because of the cost. Dentists will have a set rate for root canals, and the portion covered by insurance will vary from plan to plan.
A root canal will cost more than other restorative procedures, but root canal therapy is complex and requires considerable skill to perform. One must understand that a root canal is less costly than an extraction requiring a custom bridge or a dental implant.
Myth #3: Tooth Pain Instantly Goes Away
Although root canal therapy removes the source of pain, the infected pulp, there will be some discomfort after the treatment. Any lingering pain and discomfort will be from the treatment area recovering from the procedure.
The dentist will prescribe mild pain relievers and anti-inflammatories to be taken during the healing process. All pain, discomfort and swelling should subside within a few weeks.
Myth #4: The Benefits of a Root Canal Therapy are Short Lived
The benefits of a root canal are long lasting. The success of the procedure is determined by the success of the restorative process. If the crown is well fabricated and fits well, coupled with excellent at-home oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups, then the long-lasting benefits of the procedure will be ensured.
Myth #5: Pulling an Infected Tooth is Better Than a Root Canal
It is the goal of all practices in the dental field to preserve a natural tooth. A tooth extraction will allow bacteria easier entry into the bloodstream and requires a replacement alternative for the missing tooth. These alternatives are a bridge or a dental implant.
The replacement alternatives are more expensive and requires more time at the dentist’s office than that of a root canal procedure.
If you would like a consultation for additional information regarding a root canal procedure, then please contact the oral healthcare professionals at Chaparral Valley Dental where new patients are always welcome.
Chaparral Valley Dental is trusted and highly recommended for root canal procedures, as well as other treatments in general, restorative and cosmetic dentistry.