When it comes to dental health, there are many misconceptions, especially surrounding root canals. If you’ve been told you may need root canal therapy, it’s a good thing to separate the facts from the myths. At Access Endodontics, our dedicated endodontists, Dr. Lina Jarboe and Dr. Burton Waxman, are here to guide you through your root canal procedure. Talk to your dentist and ask for a referral to Access Endodontics. Contact our team online or call 410.304.7226 to learn more about root canal myths and facts and schedule an appointment.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure to save a tooth that is severely damaged or infected. A tooth can be damaged in the following ways:
- A deep cavity
- A cracked or chipped tooth
- Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
- Trauma to the face
When the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to one of these reasons, it can cause severe pain and discomfort. A root canal involves removing the infected pulp inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the area, then filling and sealing it. This treatment is often necessary when a tooth’s nerve tissue or pulp becomes damaged due to decay or injury.
5 Myths About Root Canals
While root canals have been around for a long time and are a standard dental procedure, there are still many myths surrounding them. Here are five of the most common root canal myths that we want to debunk:
- Root canals are painful – Modern technology and sedation options have made root canals much less painful than they were in the past.
- Root canals cause illness – Today’s dental professionals ensure that root canals are safe and do not cause disease.
- Tooth extraction is a better option – While tooth extraction may seem like a quick fix, nothing can fully replace your natural tooth. A root canal allows you to keep your natural tooth longer.
- Root canals are unnecessary for dead teeth – Even if a tooth is “dead” or non-vital, a root canal treatment can prevent infection and abscesses.
- Root canals require multiple visits – While some cases may require more than one visit, many can be completed in a single appointment, especially with laser-assisted procedures.
Remember, it’s often recommended that you keep your natural teeth for as long as possible. Root canal therapy can preserve your natural tooth and prevent the need for more extensive dental work in the future.
5 Facts About Root Canals
Here are some root canal facts you should know, especially if you have been told that you need a root canal procedure:
- Root canals relieve pain – Contrary to the myth that they cause pain, root canals are designed to alleviate pain caused by tooth infections.
- They save your natural teeth – The primary goal of a root canal is to salvage your natural tooth and prevent extraction.
- They have a high success rate – Root canals have a high success rate and typically last a lifetime with proper care.
- Laser-assisted root canals speed up recovery – At Access Endodontics, we use laser-assisted root canals to relieve pain and reduce recovery times.
- Root canals are safe – When performed by experienced endodontists, root canals are a safe and effective treatment for severe dental decay or damage.
If you have any questions about root canal therapy, it’s best to consult a dental care professional. They can provide accurate information and address any concerns you may have. At Access Endodontics, we are always happy to answer questions or clarify any misconceptions about root canals.
Schedule a Root Canal Procedure at Access Endodontics in Maryland
Understanding the difference between the facts and myths about root canals can help you make an informed decision about your oral health. At Access Endodontics, we provide both surgical and non-surgical options, ensuring our patients receive the best treatment for their individual needs. Contact Access Endodontics online or call 410.304.7226 today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile.