7 Myths about Root-Canal Therapy

7 Myths about Root-Canal Therapy

09 / 05 / 2023

Root-canal therapy is designed to eliminate bacteria from the infected root canal, prevent reinfection of the tooth and save the natural tooth.

When one undergoes a root canal, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed. Root-canal therapy can preserve teeth that would otherwise be extracted.

Myth #1: Root canals hurt … right?

About two-thirds of people cite fear of pain as the major concern relating to a root canal. However, the pain they feel is caused by an infection in the tooth, not by root canal treatment. A root canal is done to eliminate that pain and with modern techniques for local anaesthesia, this procedure is mostly painless, similar to what you would feel with a dental filling. Additionally, dentists have expertise in managing any tooth discomfort and can generally mitigate any pain or discomfort swiftly in order to try to maintain a positive treatment journey.

Myth #2: I can’t have a root canal when I have an infection.

Actually, when you are experiencing pain from an infected tooth, it is appropriate to have a root canal. The root canal will often relieve the pain you are experiencing from the infected tooth. Root canal treatment is necessary when damage to the tooth has penetrated the outer layers of enamel and the pulp of a tooth (which includes nerves) has become inflamed or infected. Left untreated, the infection will only get worse, which we unfortunately see a lot, our advice treat this pain earlier rather than later!

Myth #3: Pulling a tooth is better than a root canal.

There is no perfect replacement for a natural tooth. If possible, saving your natural tooth rather than extracting it is a sounder solution, however the dentist may make alternative suggestions depending on the varying factors involved. A tooth that has undergone a root canal treatment can still last a lifetime and delivers optimal performance and appearance. Replacing an extracted tooth with a bridge or implant (while highly successful), requires more time in treatment and may result in further procedures to neighbouring teeth and supporting tissue so don’t dismiss root canals.

Myth #4: Root canals require multiple long appointments.

With modern techniques, most root canals can be performed in a single visit of 90 to 120 minutes. While some root canals do require two appointments, this occurs in specific cases based on the type and severity of the infection present. To improve efficiency for patients and minimize the need for multiple visits, we have added the latest technology and equipment to our practice to further enhance patient experience.

Myth #5: A root canal removes the roots of the tooth.

When a root canal is performed, the dentist will remove the infected or inflamed tissue within the crown and inside the roots, called the pulp, along with the tooth’s nerve. The roots themselves are left in place. Because they anchor your teeth to your jawbone, it is important to leave the roots intact wherever possible.

Myth #6: I don’t need a root canal because I don’t have a toothache.

Teeth that need root canals do not always cause pain. Sometimes, teeth are infected and the body has created ways to deal with the pain. Your dentist can detect when a root canal is needed, either before teeth become painful, or when a non-painful, yet chronic infection is present. That is why is very important to visit your dentist for your routine check-ups and why at Olive Tree Dental we take preventative dentistry very seriously. We want happy teeth and happy patients!