Common Myths Surrounding Root Canal Therapy Debunked
When it comes to dental procedures that have gotten a bad reputation from television shows and in movies, root canals are near the top of the list. Most people dread the thought of a root canal, as they assume that it will be uncomfortable, painful, and a hassle to take care of. However, the reality is quite different. In this blog, we will be breaking down some of the common myths surrounding root canal therapy.
Myth: Root Canal Therapy Is Painful
The biggest concern that many patients have about receiving root canal therapy is potential pain. In reality, a root canal treatment that is performed by a professional and experienced dentist should not lead to any pain. Before the procedure is started, the area will be numbed using a local anesthetic. This prevents your brain from receiving pain signals, so you should not feel anything uncomfortable.
The only exception to this rule can occur if you have a serious infection. In these rare and extreme cases, the infection can interact with the anesthetic in a manner that renders it useless. If this is your situation, your dentist will provide you with a course of oral antibiotics that you can take leading up to your procedure. By killing the infection, the anesthetic will be able to work effectively.
Myth: Root Canal Therapy Is Necessary for All Toothaches
When some patients feel pain in their mouths, they worry that their toothache will require a root canal to be fixed. In reality, root canal therapy is not an appropriate solution for every problem. Your toothache could have a variety of causes. For example, it might be from a cavity that only needs a filling or due to something stuck in your gum tissue. By visiting the dentist, you will be evaluated by a professional. Your dentist can also perform x-rays, if necessary, to determine the extent of the damage to your tooth.
Many toothaches can be solved without root canal therapy. Some of the signs that you might require a root canal include pain when you are not eating, drinking, or talking; swelling in your gums or a lump over part of your gum; and pain after eating or drinking something ice cold that lasts for more than a couple of seconds.
Myth: Root Canal Therapy Is a Permanent Solution
Root canal therapy is an effective way to remove decay from your mouth and save a tooth that has serious nerve damage. During your root canal, the blood vessels will be removed from the inside of your tooth. Due to this, which is necessary to save the tooth, you will need to cover the surface of the tooth with a crown to prevent cracking from happening. However, crowns are not a permanent and foolproof solution.
Once you have a crown on your tooth, you must continue to take excellent care of your oral health. Your mouth will still be susceptible to gum disease and tooth decay. When you receive root canal therapy, it should be the start of your journey and taking better care of your teeth, not a one-time visit for urgent assistance. Provided that you continue to visit the dentist every six months and take great care of your crown at home, you can continue to use the crown for years to come.
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