admin
Sep 10, 2021
Root canal is often dreaded by people as they think that they will have to bear a lot of pain. However, they forget that if they left the infected tooth unattended, it would cause much more pain.
A root canal is the treatment that ends the cycle of pain and makes your teeth healthy. Besides this, there are many other misconceptions about the procedure, which have made it infamous.
These rumours have made many people avoid the treatment or delay it until it doesn’t cause agonising pain. According to dentists in Hope Island, it is the worst approach because the procedure is necessary in several cases.
It is essential to understand that all the horror stories about root canals are myths that need to be debunked. So, here are the truths that will help you clear your doubts and rest easy while visiting the dentist for treatment.
Myth – Root Canal Causes Excruciating Pain
Truth – It is far from the truth as modern equipment and anaesthesia do not let the patient feel any pain. Your dentist will numb the area before starting with the procedure so that there is no sensation of the equipment going inside the mouth.
Also, the practitioner will prescribe painkillers to be taken after the treatment so that you feel comfortable and at ease. The toothache caused by the damaged tissues gets treated after the treatment and does not bother you anymore.
Myth – It Involves Removing the Roots of the Tooth
Truth – No, root canal is a preventive treatment that aims to save the damaged tooth and its roots. It involves removing the infected pulp to get rid of the bacteria and avoid new infections.
The canals are then cleaned, filled, and sealed. The pulp contains nerves and connective tissue that allow the root of the tooth to grow. However, a fully grown tooth does not need the pulp and can sustain itself with the help of the surrounding tissues.
Myth – Root Canal Can Lead to Other Health Issues
Truth – It is a misbelief that if someone undergoes a root canal, he/she can contract other diseases. The treatment does not affect any other part of the body or makes it vulnerable to viral infections.
It is safe and effective. On the other hand, if you avoid treating tooth decay, it can lead to other health problems as oral well-being is related to the overall health of the body.
Myth – Pregnant Women Cannot Undergo Root Canal Treatment
Truth – Many people are not aware of the fact that pregnancy can aggravate existing dental problems or cause new ones. It is highly recommended to visit a dentist regularly during pregnancy. Also, it is completely safe to undergo root canal treatment when you are expecting since the practitioner will take every precaution to ensure safety.
The anaesthetic used for pain does not affect the health of the baby. However, if you have a high-risk pregnancy or any other health condition, your practitioner will ask you to postpone the treatment. Make sure that you consult your dentist and doctor before deciding.
Myth – Root Canal Does Not Last Long
Truth – Root canal is an endodontic treatment that saves the natural tooth by removing the infected pulp. It can safeguard the tooth for several years or even a lifetime if the restoration is performed in time and by an expert. However, with age, teeth become brittle and break easily.
Also, root canal stays longer in front teeth as they have only one root. On the other hand, back teeth have two or three roots that might need restoration after 10-15 years. So, it may not last a lifetime, but it will last for a few decades if you maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
Myth – Tooth Removal Is Better Than Root Canal
Truth – It is a misconception that extracting a tooth and replacing it with an implant is better than root canal. A dentist will always try to save the natural tooth and root canal offers the best way to preserve it in a safe manner.
Endodontic treatment is beneficial in eliminating the infection and saving the tooth. Extraction is only recommended when the natural tooth is completely damaged and there is no way of saving it. Also, an implant is a lengthy and expensive process. So, root canal scores over it in every way possible.
Myth – You Can Postpone Root Canal If There Is No Pain
Truth – Many people think that they can delay the treatment if the tooth is not giving them trouble. However, if they do not get it treated, it can infect the surrounding tissues and lead to pain and more damage.
The extent of damage caused to the pulp can be examined by the dentist during a check-up, who will prescribe a root canal to get it treated immediately. Thus, it is essential to visit your dentist regularly even if there is no ache or sensitivity.
Endnote
If you have been holding yourself back because of the myths floating around about root canal, it is better to consult your dentist in Hope Island and get a clear picture. The endodontic treatment is not risky or painful and offers successful removal of infection and relief from pain.
