If you have a severely decayed or damaged tooth, a root canal is often the best way to save it. After thoroughly numbing the tooth, we will create a small opening from the crown down into the root chamber. After carefully cleaning out all damaged or infected tissue, we will then use a biocompatible material to seal the canals and a temporary filling will be placed. Then your family dentist will fit you with a temporary crown to wear while your final crown is created.
The process is straightforward and extremely common, yet root canals are arguably the most feared dental process of all. Here is the truth behind 3 popular myths about root canals.
Root Canals Can Cause Illness
In the 1920s, Dr. Weston A. Price claimed that root canals could lead to illnesses throughout the body, and that extraction was the safer option. By the 1930s, though, Dr. Price’s research had been debunked.
In 1951, the Journal of the American Dental Association published conclusive research that showed that Dr. Price’s questionable research methods and practices had led to false results. Alongside later studies, this special report concluded that root canal treatment is the safest and most effective solution.
Today, the internet has given new life to Dr. Price’s claims. A Google search will turn up dozens of sites that claim that root canals cause illness, but all can be traced back to Dr. Price’s long-debunked research.
In reality, root canals eliminate bacteria and seal off the tooth to prevent new bacteria from entering. Extraction leaves a hole for bacteria to enter. Although a proper extraction has only a minimal risk for infection, a proper root canal eliminates even this small risk.
Root Canals Are Painful
At one time, root canals might have caused some pain. Today, though, there have been major advances in both dental technology and pain management that have rendered root canals simple, fast, and pain free. In fact, the American Association of Endodontists says that people who have had a root canal are a stunning six times more likely to classify the procedure as “painless” than people who have not. The fear is real, but the pain is only a myth. Most people go back to work in just 24 to 48 hours.
Extraction Is Better
Related to the illness myth, this myth claims that since dental implants and their highly natural crowns are readily available, it is best to simply pull teeth that need root canals. It is true that modern technology can work wonders for those whose teeth are too far gone to be saved, restoring the majority of bite strength and chewing ability, and providing a beautiful smile.
Yet, even the best restoration can not truly replace your own tooth. Your natural teeth have a fully stabilized root system, natural aesthetics, and your full bite strength and chewing forces. Unless other factors are at work, it is never wise to pull a tooth that could be saved with a root canal.
Ready to Get Started?
If you need an endodontist, please contact Lindemann Root Canal Specialists today at 810-732-7900 to schedule your appointment.
