Root canals are needed when there’s a deep cavity or extensive decay affecting the innermost part of a tooth. It sounds scary, but it’s often the best and simplest way of dealing with these types of issues. But if your dentist has informed you that a root canal is needed to save your tooth, you might have doubts—after all, there’s quite a lot of misinformation floating around about them. It’s time to set the record straight; let’s debunk four common myths about root canal therapy to help put you at ease!
Myth #1. Root Canals Are Always Incredibly Painful
Despite what you’ve heard through the grapevine or seen on television, root canals are not outright painful at all—in fact, they’re designed to actually address the source of the pain, rather than cause more. Plus, your dentist will always ensure that your mouth is properly numbed prior to your root canal. While some minor discomfort is possible afterward while you’re healing, you can rest assured knowing that following a root canal, your mouth will feel much better than before!
Myth #2. Oral Hygiene Doesn’t Matter After a Root Canal
Following your root canal procedure, your tooth will receive a dental restoration to cover and protect it. However, while the tooth in question might be saved, it’s not invincible—it will still need help to remain healthy inside the mouth. This is where consistent daily oral hygiene comes into play; the underlying tooth, surrounding teeth, and nearby gum tissue are all susceptible to problem-causing bacteria. Don’t neglect to brush and floss daily once your tooth has been saved.
Myth #3. It’s Better to Have a Tooth Extracted Than Undergo a Root Canal
Your natural teeth are always going to be the best option for your oral health, period. They’re designed to help you bite, chew, and smile, but just as importantly, they help to regulate your dental health, keep your jawbone healthy, and do quite a lot of other good things for you. Your dentist will only recommend tooth extraction if root canal therapy isn’t a viable option—but if the tooth can be saved, your dentist will try to save it. Even though teeth can be replaced, it’s more expensive, more time-consuming, and only done as a true last resort.
Myth #4. My Tooth Doesn’t Hurt, So I Must Not Need a Root Canal
It’s possible that you were experiencing tooth discomfort that has now gone away—but you should think twice before celebrating, as this doesn’t mean the problem has resolved itself. In fact, this may actually be a sign that a root canal is now needed more than ever, since it could indicate the root of the tooth has died. Don’t hesitate to contact your dentist; they’ll be able to diagnose the issue and determine if a root canal or some other form of treatment is needed.
Root canals have an unfair reputation, but the truth is, they have assisted countless patients over the years and allowed them to keep more of their smiles intact. Don’t let any myths or misinformation dissuade you—they’re the real deal!
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Khoi Le and Dr. Edward Murray, our team here at Khoi Dental Group has served the dental needs of patients in Jacksonville and the surrounding area for several years, offering a wide variety of services, including root canal therapy as well as same-day emergency care for those with urgent needs. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up an appointment, please reach out online or contact our Riverside or Bartram Park office for more information. Telephone: (904) 906-7751.