A lot of people cope with pain stemming from decayed and infected teeth. Many of them need root canal therapy, but are hesitant to visit their dentists for treatment. They fear having a root canal performed because of one or more misguided notions. Unfortunately, the more time that passes without treatment, the more likely the infected tooth must be extracted.

Below, we\’ll clarify some of the misconceptions that persist regarding root canals (endodontic therapy). We\’ll cover the pain involved with the procedure, its safety, and when to visit the dentist to have it performed. You may discover that much of what you know about endodontic treatment is inaccurate.

\”Root Canal Therapy Is Extremely Painful\”

People who have never undergone a root canal tend to believe the procedure is extremely painful. In reality, therapy results in a small degree of discomfort, similar to that which accompanies having a tooth filled. The notion that endodontic treatment is painful likely arises from early procedures, when the tools and anesthesia used were less developed than those that are used today.

While therapy may be slightly uncomfortable, allowing an infected tooth to remain untreated will result in far more pain.

\”Removal Of The Infected Tooth Is Preferable\”

It is always preferable to keep your own teeth as long as they remain healthy. Although an artificial tooth can provide much of the same function as a natural tooth, it can never fully replace it. The artificial tooth will pose limitations.

For example, if you receive dentures or implants, you may need to abstain from certain foods to avoid damaging them. Also, bear in mind that having artificial teeth fabricated and placed is usually more expensive than endodontic treatment.

\”Pregnant Women Cannot Receive Root Canal Treatment\”

This misconception stems from the x-rays and anesthesia used before and during the procedure. X-rays are taken of the patient\’s mouth to help the dentist visualize troubled areas of the tooth and jaw. The images help to pinpoint the extent of the infection as well as the internal structure of the diseased tooth. While these x-rays deliver a small dose of radiation, it is directed toward the mouth. The unborn fetus is not at risk. In addition, the dentist can provide a lightweight lead apron for added protection.

The anesthesia is also safe. It is delivered locally, and thus does not reach the womb.

\”Root Canal Therapy Allows Bacteria Into A Tooth\”

First, it\’s important to understand that bacteria is always present in the mouth, and does not necessarily cause harm to teeth. If a tooth becomes infected, bacteria can gain access to its pulp chamber and canals. The belief that endodontic treatment exposes a tooth to bacteria, and thus infection, is based on a misunderstanding of the procedure.

During therapy, the canals and pulp chamber are cleared, cleaned, shaped, and filled. There are times when bacteria can be found in a previously-canaled tooth. This occasionally happens when a tiny branch extends from one of the main canals, and is missed by the dentist. Infection remains within it, and eventually begins to spread. But note that the infection was already present prior to treatment. In other words, endodontic therapy did not allow infection inside the tooth; it was already there.

\”A Root Canal Is Unnecessary If There Is No Tooth Pain\”

If a patient feels persistent pain in a tooth, endodontic treatment may be necessary to save it. However, pain is not always present in situations that warrant therapy. In some cases, the nerves and blood vessels within the pulp chamber and canals are dead, exposing the tooth to infection. Removing them helps to prevent its onset, thus saving the tooth from extraction.

Root canal therapy can help to save teeth that would otherwise need to be removed. Unfortunately, the misconceptions above prevent many people from seeking treatment.

Find out more about Root Canal Procedures from your Raleigh Family Dentist at www.thomasecookedds.com

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Author Bio: Find out more about Root Canal Procedures from your Raleigh Family Dentist at www.thomasecookedds.com

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