There are a lot of misconceptions about root canals; Are they good or bad? In our Manchester family dental office we believe they are the best option to save your tooth. Like most people, I’m sure you have some preconceived notions regarding the procedure as horror stories and the internet perpetuate fallacies regarding root canals.
We kindly ask that you make an informed decision based on the sound evidence that exists regarding root canals. For instance, there are reasons why people experience a toothache such as: large decay causing severe inflammation or infection of the root canal, fractured tooth, and trauma.
Prolonging root canal treatment can also sometimes lead to the tooth requiring extraction as it has become non-restorable in the time between appointments, due to the breakdown of sound tooth structure. At our Manchester family dental office, we want you to have all the facts upfront and below the common misconceptions about Endodontic treatment (Root Canal Treatment) are described.
Common Misconceptions about Endodontics Treatments (Root Canals)
- Root Canals will cause pain – A root canal treatment will actually relieve the pain you are feeling beforehand. As caries develops and decay gets deeper towards the pulp (nerve), severe inflammation occurs. This inflammation is accompanied by several unpleasant and painful sensations such as: lingering sensitivity to hot/cold, sharp spontaneous pain that will often wake you from sleep, and sensitivity to biting. At the point where symptoms are experienced is often when treatment is sought. However, with proper anesthesia the damaged tissue in the root canal can be removed with minimal to no discomfort.
- Root Canals will cause health problems in the future – There is no valid, evidence based study that correlates systemic disease with root canal treatment. Treatment is designed to eradicate bacteria from an inflamed or infected pulp (nerve).
- Root Canals will not save the tooth – Root canal treatment is aimed at helping save and preserve your natural tooth. It is always preferred to keep your natural dentition before going through extractions and replacement with implants or dentures. Nothing functions like your natural dentition and every attempt to save it should be made.
