Just the thought of a root canal can be intimidating to some people. Here at Contemporary Dentistry and Implantology, we understand that. But what if we told you that some of the things that you know about root canals just are not true? Root canals have MANY myths surrounding them … myths that sound scary and can convince people out of seeking the help they need. In today’s blog, we will be discussing some of these myths, giving you the facts, and telling you more about how our Peabody, MA dental team can help you get the care you need comfortably!
Please contact our team if you have any questions or concerns about your root canal procedure. We would be happy to provide the information you need to feel good about your dental health care.
What Is A Root Canal?
Root canal procedures are designed to remove infected material from the tooth and eliminate pain. The process is actually quite simple … we access the tooth, remove the dental pulp and attached nerves, fill the tooth, seal it up, and cap it off with a crown. This restores the tooth’s health and structural integrity, allowing it to stay functional in your mouth for many years to come.
Myth #1: Root Canals Are Painful
The number one reason why many people are scared of having a root canal is because they think it will hurt. This information is simply false. Many years ago, when dentistry was much less advanced, it probably did hurt to have a root canal done. However, with modern technology and comfort options, a root canal is designed to eliminate your pain and never let it return … not cause it.
We use a local anesthesia during root canal treatments to numb the area and help you avoid discomfort. However, if you still want additional comfort, we also offer dental sedation. We use two levels here in our office: nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral conscious sedation. Nitrous oxide sedation is great for taking the edge off your nerves, while oral conscious sedation is a medication that will help you feel very relaxed, even drowsy. If you are currently in pain and need a root canal, please do not fear that the procedure will hurt! We will help get you comfortable and then eliminate the pain from that tooth forever!
Myth #2: Pulling The Tooth Is More Effective
Some patients wonder why we just don’t pull the tooth. However, we do not want to pull the tooth unless that’s the only option. Some teeth can’t be saved. But the ones that can be saved should be saved with a root canal! Removing the tooth is our last resort.
Myth #3: Root Canals Are A Temporary Solution
As mentioned above, root canals are indeed forever! While there are some things that can happen that can compromise the tooth further (even after treatment), the procedure is designed to eliminate the tooth’s ability to feel pain PERMANENTLY. Because we remove the nerves along with the infected material in your tooth, it simply will no longer be able to feel pain. We can then restore the tooth structurally so that it is healthy and strong for many years to come.
Myth #4: Root Canals Can Make You Sick
The final myth we want to talk with you about today is that root canals can make you sick. This simply isn’t true. With modern dental technology, root canals are no greater risk to your overall health that getting a filling! And it is simply false that they can give you cancer! Talk to our team if you are concerned about another health issue. We would be happy to answer your questions.
How To Schedule An Appointment
Do you think you may need a root canal? Are you simply due for a routine dental checkup? Either way, we would be happy to help you. Call our Peabody, MA dental office today at 978-278-1760 to schedule a visit. You can also use our online contact form to request an appointment. Our team will help you find a suitable date and time and help you get the care you need.