For many people when the dentist mentions the word root canal treatment, they reel back in horror. In this month’s blog we look to bust some of the most common myths about root canal treatment.
- Root canal treatment is painful!
The perception that root canal treatment hurts started decades ago when root canal treatment was painful. Today with the advances of modern technology and better anaesthetics, root canal treatment is no more painful than having a filling. Recovery times are just a few days and post appointment discomfort should be minimal. Normally root canal treatment is able to relieve you of the toothache you are experiencing. Yes, that is right root canal treatment relieves pain.
- Root canal treatment requires multiple visits!
With the advances in technology, it is possible for root canal treatment to be completed in as little as one or two visits. Many root canal treatments can be completed in one appointment while some cases require two or three visits due to the infection and inflammation. Often people think that an extraction is a faster option, which may be true, but you will then need to attend for a bridge, a dental implant or denture treatment to fill the missing gap, meaning it can actually require much more time in the dental surgery.
- An extraction is a better alternative!
Keeping your natural teeth for as long as possible is very important for proper eating and chewing functions. Root canal treatment can also provide a less expensive option than having the tooth extracted and replaced with a bridge, a dental implant or denture.
- Root canal treatments are not often successful!
This is not true. Root canal treatment has about a 95% success rate. The tooth and gums will need to be kept healthy with good oral hygiene to ensure that the natural tooth lasts a lifetime without further treatment.
- Root canal treatment causes illness !
This was a rumour started by Dr Weston Price in 1910. His researched claimed that endodontically treated teeth could leave patients susceptible to infection and illness. Dr Price’s research has been criticized and proven to be flawed. Having root canal treatment does not increase your likelihood of illness or disease. There is no medical evidence that confirms a link between root canal treatment and the cause of other illnesses. In fact, root canal treatment aims to remove bad bacteria from the mouth and prevent reinfection. This means that root canal treatment is designed to fight off illness and infection. Not cause it!
At Maidstone Dental & Implant Centre you can be safe in the knowledge that you will always receive the highest possible level of care, in a relaxed and calm environment, ensuring that you can keep your teeth as healthy as possible for as long as possible. If you would like more information or have any questions do not hesitate to ring the surgery on 01622 682 029.
