5 Most Common Myths about Root Canal Treatment

Dr. Firoz Lalani

Medically Reviewed By Dr. Firoz Lalani

Table of Contents

If it were to us we would never get ourselves a root canal. Let’s face it, the word alone is scary enough to send shivers down anyone’s spine. That’s what needs to change. In most cases, people do not have proper knowledge about the treatment and therefore they are hesitant to get one. However, those who already have undergone this treatment know that it’s a long process but in the end, it all works out.

Root canal treatment is a regular dental procedure required to extract bacteria and decay from the tooth pulp, nerve, and root. You must know that during a root canal procedure the endodontist numbs the infected area and later disinfects it with antibiotics, fills empty roots, and seals the area to prevent the decay from starting again.

Despite the simple procedure, many keep on delaying the root canal treatment assuming it to be painful or very expensive. Others never turn up for their dental procedure. There are several myths associated with RCT that usually scares the patients.

On that note, take a look at the most common myths surrounding root canal procedures —debunked.

tooth extraction

Root canal procedure is expensive

Considering the fact that it extracts decay and bacteria from the inner core of your tooth, it has to be slightly more costly than other dental procedures. However, it is not a prohibitively expensive dental procedure. The cost will differ depending on the severity of infection in your tooth, its location, and the cost of the dental crown. Your insurance coverage also matters here.

Root canal procedure is risky

As long as you’re not getting it done by a general physician, you are in safe hands. Therefore, this myth is false. If you are recommended an RCT by your dentist, consider it the last call to save your natural tooth from getting decayed. On the contrary, not getting a root canal procedure done in time would lead to several other health risks.

Root canal procedure is painful

tooth extraction

The most common and dreadful myth. Let’s clear this misunderstanding once and for all— RCT is not a painful procedure. The endodontist would numb the entire area with anesthesia. You will be aware of the ongoing procedure but you will not feel any sensation let alone pain, in your mouth. In fact, your dentist will prescribe you antibiotics and painkillers to eliminate any kind of discomfort post-treatment.

Root canal procedure not required unless your tooth hurts

There is no connection between tooth pain and root canal procedure. Tooth pain or swelling is one of the symptoms that may lead to root canal treatment. However, there could be other underlying symptoms that indicate the need for an RCT such as extreme sensitivity to hot and cold food items, swelling in gums, chipped, or cracked teeth. Therefore, do not wait for your tooth to ache for you to get referred for RCT. Consult your dentist anyway.

Pregnant ladies must avoid Root canal treatment

This myth derives from the fact that pregnant ladies should avoid x-rays; which is true. However, during a root canal treatment, the dentist only requires an x-ray of your mouth. Therefore, the rays aren’t ideally reaching the abdomen area that makes the root canal procedure safe during pregnancy.

So before you believe any of the above myths or create some of your own to avoid a root canal procedure, think twice as root canal treatments not only save the tooth roots but also eliminates chances of severe health problems like cardiovascular and neurological diseases. Get all your queries related to dental procedures answered and your tooth treated by the best dentist in Houston today.

Our dentists can heal an infected tooth when we perform root canal therapy. Our doctors and team will remove the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues from inside of your teeth and fill their place with medicated materials so your mouth can heal. Contact ADental Care if you want to learn more about receiving a root canal in Houston, Texas.

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