Root canals are probably the most common yet least understood types of dental procedure that we do at Pleasant Valley Dentistry. People who do not understand the root canal procedure have spun a lot of myths about what a root canal is and is not, and we want to set the record straight.In some cases, people will actually be turned away from getting a root canal because of these myths, and that is something our dentists will not allow. Thus, instead, we want to make sure that you have all the facts about getting a root canal because you might need one.
What Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat an infected or damaged tooth. It helps save a tooth that might otherwise need to be removed. While the term "root canal" may sound intimidating, it is a routine treatment that can relieve pain and restore oral health.
Myth: Root Canals Cause Pain
Pain has been associated with dentistry for as long as people can remember, but just like various other dental treatments, it actually relieves your pain instead. Chances are, you are in pain because the root of your tooth is so badly damaged and you need to get it fixed.
Any discomfort you do experience, will likely come after the procedure due to the mild inflammation that it causes, and most over-the-counter medications that we prescribe can fix the problem.
It is the sad truth that most of these myths, including the myth about pain, have been spread by various people who have never had the procedure. For those who have had a root canal, nearly all of them say it was painless and fast.
Myth: I Should Just Have The Tooth Pulled
If your tooth root is infected, some people think that it is easier to just have the tooth extracted. In most cases, that is wrong, as our dentists fight to preserve your natural teeth before replacing them with dental crowns and implants. Root canal treatments are faster, less expensive, and have a much higher rate of success when compared to tooth extractions.
Myth: Root Canals Affect The Root
Despite the name talking about the root, the root canal does not get removed or altered during the procedure. The only thing that ends up getting removed from the mouth is the pulp that goes inside of the root. Often that pulp is decayed and infected, and it needs to be removed. Root canals only affect the pulp and nothing else.
Schedule An Appointment
If you need help and want to understand more about root canals or want to schedule this procedure with our experts at Pleasant Valley Dentistry, our team will make sure you are taken care of. Call us at 623-561-1470 and we can help.