admin
Jan 03, 2024
Cavities are one of the few ailments that can make you writhe in pain. Toothache can be unbearable and lead to an emergency visit to the dentist. Usually, extreme pain is a symptom of a deep cavity that can be treated with the help of a root canal.
Most people ignore the pain until it becomes unmanageable and requires the procedure. This is the reason why one in every three persons above the age of fifteen in Australia has tooth decay. Children have almost the same frequency of developing caries and leaving them untreated.
Thus, people who develop tooth sensitivity, inflammation of gums and tooth pain must get their mouth examined immediately. Even though it is a known fact that these symptoms should not be ignored, most people avoid dental appointments because of the myths surrounding the treatment.
So, let us help you debunk the common misconceptions about root canal treatment with verified facts. It will help you get the treatment done without any apprehensions or anxiety.
1. Misconception: If Cavity Does Not Hurt, Root Canal Is Not Needed
Fact: Cavities are sometimes silent problems that do not show apparent alarming symptoms. It is possible that the cavity does not pain, but it needs to be treated to prevent further tooth decay.
Your dentist Hope Island can identify the extent of the problem with the help of a dental x-ray and prescribe the correct treatment. Usually, a root canal is needed when the pulp of the tooth is infected or damaged. If you delay it, other teeth can also get affected and lead to greater damage and pain.
2. Misconception: Root Canal Requires Removal of Teeth Roots
Fact: If you fear losing your tooth because root canal treatment sounds like removal of the tooth’s roots, you are mistaken. The procedure replaces the infected pulp consisting of blood vessels, tissues and nerves with a rubber-like dental material.
The tooth is then covered with a dental crown to avoid future infections. It is essential to prevent the infection from spreading to the jawbone and surrounding teeth.
3. Misconception: Root Canal Hurts A Lot
Fact: Root canal treatment is not as painful as it is projected to be by most unaware people. In fact, it is performed to alleviate the pain caused by the bacterial infection in the pulp of the tooth.
Since the procedure is completed after injecting anaesthesia into the gums, it does not hurt. The patient has to bear the pain of the needle going to the gums and some sensitivity after the procedure is completed.
Thus, most Hope Island dentists call it a painless treatment, and the recovery period is also short. It can be completed in two appointments.
4. Misconception: Root Canal Requires A Lot of Aftercare
Fact: Root canal heals quickly, and there is no long list of aftercare instructions. You only need to understand that the tooth’s pulp has been removed and covered with a cap.
So, you need to eat a soft, mushy diet for a few days and avoid having hard foods when you start a solid diet. You must maintain your normal brushing and flossing routine and use an antibacterial mouthwash for optimum dental health. Besides the diet part, there is no other requirement, and it lasts only for a few days.
5. Misconception: Root Canal Can Lead to Health Issues
Fact: Gathering information from unverified sources can impact your awareness levels and make you believe in myths. Root canals do not cause any health complications, as stated by many people without providing any facts.
The treatment has been effectively used for several years to treat damaged teeth without causing any side effects or problems. It does not lead to cancer or any other illness. You can speak to your dentist for further clarification on the issue.
6. Misconception: Extraction Is Better Than Root Canal
Fact: The most important thing to understand is that saving the natural tooth is a priority of your dentist in Hope Island. They will never suggest extraction unless it is impossible to treat the infected tooth.
A root canal ensures the natural tooth stays intact and connected to the jawbone for natural functions like eating and speaking. Although dental implants and dentures perform the same function, they do not have periodontal ligaments and are expensive. The procedure takes time and is invasive.
7. Misconception: Root Canal Is A Temporary Treatment
Fact: Root canal treatment can last a lifetime if the person continues to clean his mouth every day with proper brushing and flossing.
It is the permanent restoration of the decayed tooth, but it can become infected again if bacteria are allowed to grow in the mouth. Thus, it is vital to visit your Hope Island dentist regularly to get the mouth examined and maintain oral hygiene.
Wrapping Up
Teeth are the most precious part of our bodies as they help us chew food and speak properly. It is crucial to keep them clean and maintained.
However, if you suspect cavities or are experiencing symptoms of tooth decay, you must immediately consult your dentist. A root canal treatment can help to save the tooth and restore its natural function.
