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When your tooth has been badly infected, a root canal treatment may be your best option for resolving this dental emergency. However, some patients are nervous about undergoing this procedure, and in many cases, these anxieties are rooted in misinformation. If you are worried about root canal treatment, learning the truth behind the following 4 myths could help put your mind at ease.
Myth 1: Having a Root Canal Treatment Performed Is Very Painful
One of the most widespread misconceptions about root canal treatment is the idea that it is a particularly painful procedure. The fact of the matter is that for many patients, root canal treatment is comparable to having a filling placed in terms of comfort. This is largely due to the fact that your dentist numbs the mouth with a local anesthetic before the procedure begins.
It’s important to bear in mind that the purpose of a root canal treatment is not to cause discomfort. In fact, it is meant to help relieve any pain that you might be experiencing due to an infected tooth.
Myth 2: Having a Tooth Extracted is Preferable to Root Canal Treatment
A tooth extraction is typically only recommended as a last resort. Removing a tooth can have serious consequences for your smile in the long run. For example, it can have a negative impact on your ability to speak clearly or chew certain foods. As such, your dentist will strive to save your natural teeth whenever they can. In many cases, a root canal treatment may be the best option for preserving a tooth that would otherwise have to be removed.
Myth 3: Root Canal Treatment Can Make You Sick
This particular myth is based on very old research that was conducted in the 1920s. Said research was not properly carried out, and it was debunked quite a while ago. As of now, there is no credible evidence indicating that root canal treatment will put you at a higher risk of suffering from other health issues.
Myth 4: You Don’t Need a Root Canal Treatment If There’s No Pain
If your tooth doesn’t hurt, you might assume that a root canal treatment is unnecessary. However, an infection could still be present even if it isn’t currently causing you any discomfort. In fact, a lack of pain could mean that the infection has damaged the nerves inside your teeth so badly that they no longer function. At that point, it’s imperative to have a root canal treatment performed as quickly as possible if you want to give yourself the best chance of saving the tooth.
You need to make sure that you have all the facts before making any decisions regarding your oral health. If you’re ever informed that you need a root canal treatment, be sure to voice any questions or concerns that are on your mind; your dentist will be more than happy to clear up any misconceptions you may have.
About the Practice
At Laketown Family Dental in Norton Shores, our team is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care. If one of our patients has a severe toothache or another type of dental emergency, we can schedule a same-day appointment for them so that they can get the care they need as soon as possible. Do you have tooth pain that might mean you need a root canal treatment? Call us at (231) 737-2273 or visit our website to schedule an appointment so that we can help you feel better fast.