3 Myths About Root Canals - Jacobs and Thatcher Dentistry

Over the years, root canals have developed a bad reputation. Many patients want to run the other way when told they need one.

What most do not understand, however, is that root canal treatment is about as routine as a filling for a cavity. Sure, it is a little more involved, but it is not the scary procedure so many people make it out to be.

Perhaps it is time to debunk a few of the myths about root canals.

Myth #1: Root Canals Are Painful

Thanks to modern dentistry, root canals are not painful. Local anesthetic is used to numb the area so that you have no discomfort during the procedure. And, if you so choose, sedation can further increase your comfort for the duration.

After the treatment, you may experience some minor discomfort once the anesthetic wears off, but an over-the-counter pain reliever should be all you need for relief.

Even better news is that, because a root canal treatment removes the infection and pulp from your tooth, you will no longer feel any toothache pain like you did prior to the procedure.

Myth #2: You’re Better Off Just Pulling the Tooth

Dentists know that there is no true replacement that can match the quality of a natural tooth – regardless of how incredible dental implants are. So pulling the tooth is just not a feasible option if it can be fixed with a root canal.

Yes, an extraction is more affordable – right now. But pulling a tooth means needing to replace it or face the costly and complex oral health issues that are sure to arise later. Saving money is not always the best route to take when it comes to caring for your teeth and gums.

You are better off having a root canal and fixing the issue at hand. You will be free of decay and infection and will still have your natural tooth.

Myth #3: If You Do Not Have Any Pain, Then You Won’t Need A Root Canal

Some people have an infected tooth and have a lot of pain. In fact, most patients who come into their dentist’s office with excruciating pain usually have an infected pulp that requires a root canal. Every now and then, though, there are those patients who don’t even realize they have something so serious taking place inside their tooth.

Does that mean they don’t need a root canal? Absolutely not.

Whether you feel the pain or not does not change the fact that the infection is present – and it is able to spread. So, don’t put off the root canal you need just because it is not bothering you. Your tooth needs to be addressed as soon as possible to remove the infection and allow for healing.

Root Canal Treatment in Sun City Center

If you are in need of a root canal treatment, it is time to take action. The team at Jacobs and Thatcher Dentistry will get you through it as gently and comfortably as possible – and we will answer any questions you may have along the way.