Root canals often carry a negative connotation, but modern dental techniques have made them safer and less painful.

Root Canal Awareness Week is an annual event that highlights the importance of saving natural teeth through endodontic treatment. In this article, we’ll tackle common myths about root canals and clarify what to expect during a procedure. We’ll also examine what guests may be good candidates for a root canal and what symptoms to look out for.

The American Association of Endodontics can also be an excellent resource for learning more about root canals and understanding their benefits. 

Myth #1: Root Canals Are Extremely Painful

Many guests shy away from root canals because they have been told they are painful, but modern techniques have helped significantly reduce discomfort during the procedure. 

• Reality: Advances in anesthesia and technology allow most patients to experience minimal discomfort.
• Why It Persists: Outdated perceptions and secondhand horror stories often drive this misconception.
• What to Do: Discuss sedation options for a root canal with your dentist, especially if you have dental anxiety.

Myth #2: Extraction Is Better Than a Root Canal

Other guests avoid root canals because they believe simply going for a tooth extraction will be simpler and less expensive, but that is not always the case. 

• Reality: Retaining natural teeth helps maintain jawbone integrity and normal bite function.
• Why It Persists: Some believe extraction is cheaper and faster, but the long-term costs of implants or bridges can be higher.
• What to Do: Consult an endodontist to evaluate if saving the tooth is feasible before moving forward with an extraction.

Myth #3: Root Canals Take Multiple Painful Visits

Some guests believe root canals are an overly complex procedure that requires many painful visits. However, modern root canals can be done much faster. 

• Reality: Many root canals finish in one to two appointments, with minimal post-treatment soreness.
• Why It Persists: Complex cases or reinfections can extend treatment, but that’s not typical.
• What to Do: Follow your dentist’s advice on aftercare and antibiotics to ensure smooth healing.

Myth #4: Root Canals Cause Illness or Spread Infection

A common misconception is that root canals can cause infection in the mouth. However, when performed by a professional, experienced dentist, root canals actually prevent illness and infection. 

• Reality: Properly performed root canals remove infected pulp and seal the canal, preventing further infection.
• Why It Persists: Old, discredited theories suggest leftover bacteria cause systemic health issues.
• What to Do: Maintain regular checkups to monitor the treated tooth and overall gum health.

The Modern Root Canal Procedure

If you’re considering a root canal, it’s important to understand what the procedure will entail. A typical root canal involves the following steps: 

• Anesthesia – Local anesthesia is administered to numb the affected area, ensuring the patient feels no pain during the procedure.
• Pulp removal – The infected or damaged pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels) is carefully removed.
• Cleaning and shaping – The empty canals are thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and shaped to prepare for filling.
• Sealing (obturation) – The cleaned canals are filled and sealed with a rubber-like material, usually gutta-percha, to prevent future infection.

Technological Improvements

Technological improvements in recent years have made root canals more efficient and less painful. Digital X-rays are used to properly diagnose and plan treatments, while rotary endodontic tools are used to clean and shape the canals after pulp removal.

Microscope-assisted treatments are also used and provide enhanced magnification and illumination, which is crucial for the most delicate parts of a root canal.

Aftercare for Root Canals

For guests who undergo root canals, mild soreness after the procedure is expected, and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. A final restoration (usually a crown or filling) often follows a root canal and requires an additional visit. 

When to Consider a Root Canal

So, how do you know if you’re in need of a root canal? Consult with a dentist if you notice any of the following symptoms, as it may be an indication that you’re a candidate for a root canal. 

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• Persistent tooth pain
• Extreme sensitivity 
• Swelling
• Darkening of the tooth
• Cracked or traumatized teeth
• A pimple or bump on the gums 
• Deep tooth decay 
• Pain that radiates to the jaw or ear

Root Canal Treatments are Available at Your Local Ideal Dental

Root Canal Awareness Week is a great time to learn more about root canals and how they can benefit your oral health. While several myths about these procedures exist, separating fact from fiction will allow you to feel more comfortable and confident if you need a root canal now or in the future. 

Modern root canals are a relatively painless, efficient, and cost-effective way to preserve your natural teeth. If you think you may be in need of a root canal, contact your local Ideal Dental today to set up a consultation.