Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to treat infected or damaged teeth. It involves the removal of infected or damaged tooth pulp and nerve tissue. Followed by cleaning and sealing the root canal system. It can also reduce the risk of further damage or infection and often helps you avoid tooth extraction. Root canal therapy is needed when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to decay, trauma, cracks, or any other damage.
This can cause severe pain and sometimes even an abscess. During root canal therapy in Calgary, the infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. This can help relieve pain, treat the infection and save the tooth.
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Root canal treatment has been a source of fear and anxiety for many people, leading to the development of myths and misconceptions about the procedure. Many of these myths stem from outdated information and a need for more understanding of advances in modern dentistry. Common myths include the belief that root canals are painful, that the treatment is risky, and can cause health issues. In reality, root canal treatment is done with local anesthesia (freezing), and it is a common, generally safe way to save a tooth that has been damaged or infected.
Common myths of root canal
Root canals are one of the most common dental procedures, yet they also carry many myths and misconceptions. This article will debunk 8 root canal myths to help you make an informed decision about your dental health.
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Myth #1: Root Canals are Painful
A root canal procedure is often considered painful, but that’s far from the truth. The purpose of a root canal is to save an infected or damaged tooth by removing the infection and damaged tissue to help prevent further damage and decay. Many patients say the procedure feels similar to getting a filling, since local anesthesia is used to numb the area before any work is done. Some soreness for a few days afterward is common. Use over-the-counter pain relief only as directed on the package, and ask a pharmacist, doctor or dentist which option is safe for you.
Myth #2: Root Canals Don’t Last
Another common myth is that root canals don’t last very long and will require multiple treatments over time. Most root canal treatments are successful and can last many years, especially with a crown and good care. Some teeth do need further treatment later, and your dentist will check the tooth at regular visits.
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Myth #3: All Teeth Need Root Canals
Not all teeth need a root canal procedure. Only teeth with infected or badly inflamed pulp need this treatment to save them from decay or infection. Your dentist can diagnose whether or not you need a root canal based on factors such as X-rays and other examinations.
Myth #4: You Should Just Pull the Tooth Instead
Dentists usually try to save a natural tooth when possible, because pulling it out could cause long-term problems with your overall dental health due to shifting teeth, bite misalignment, and other issues related to missing teeth. If your tooth can be saved with a root canal procedure. It should be considered instead of pulling it out immediately without exploring all options. Your dentist will explain the pros and cons of each option.
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Myth #5: Root Canals Cause Illness
Some people believe that having a root canal could lead to various illnesses elsewhere in the body. This idea comes from old research that has since been discredited, and there is no valid scientific evidence linking root canal treatment to illness.
Myth #6: Root Canals are Expensive
The cost of root canal treatment can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the number of teeth involved. However, the procedure often costs less than having a tooth extracted and replaced with an implant or bridge, though costs depend on the tooth and your insurance. Additionally, many dental insurance plans cover at least part of the cost of root canal treatment, making it even more affordable.
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Myth #7: Root Canals are Unnecessary
This is another common misconception about root canal treatment. The truth is that it is often the only way to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. Without the procedure, the tooth may need to be extracted, which can lead to a number of problems, including shifting teeth, bite misalignment, and difficulty eating. Root canal treatment can help preserve the tooth and lower the risk of future problems.
Myth #8: Root Canals Weaken Teeth
Another common myth about root canals is that they can weaken your teeth. In reality, the tooth is weakened mainly by the decay or damage that made the root canal necessary. Your dentist will remove infected material from your tooth and seal the inside with a special filling material to help prevent reinfection. A crown is often placed afterward to protect the tooth, especially a back tooth.
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A highly decaying or diseased tooth is already fragile. However, a root canal may preserve your tooth and keep it from falling out by removing the damaged inner component of your tooth. When the pulp is taken out, and the tooth is fixed, a crown is placed over it for protection.
Conclusion
Overall, root canals are a generally safe and effective treatment for infected teeth. Don’t be fooled by these myths about root canals. If you think you need a root canal, talk to your dentist about the procedure and available treatment options.
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Root canals are a generally safe and effective procedure for treating an infected tooth. Although there are some myths and misconceptions about root canals, the reality is that root canals are a generally safe and effective way to save an infected tooth.
Call the clinic at 403-345-1110 for tooth pain, swelling or a dental injury. Call 911 for trouble breathing or swallowing. For facial swelling with fever or a serious injury, go to an emergency department or call Health Link 811 (24/7 advice from a registered nurse).
With the help of modern dental procedures, root canal treatment is often more comfortable than people expect. You can book your appointment for root canal therapy in Calgary with one of our general dentists, who can refer you to an endodontist (a root canal specialist) if needed.
