Root canal treatment aims to repair and save a badly damaged or infected tooth. Typically, the procedure involves removing the damaged area of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting, and then filling and sealing it. The common causes affecting the damaged area of the tooth are a cracked tooth or a deep cavity. In other cases, it may be caused by repeated dental treatment to the tooth or trauma. According to our dentist who offers root canals in Toronto, the term “root canal” implies cleaning of the canals inside the tooth’s root.
To many patients, the mere thought of a root canal may cause endless fear and anxiety, especially if one is not acquainted with the procedure. Common misconceptions influence such patients that endodontic treatments such as root canals cause unbearable pain or illness. Some people go to the extent of recommending that it should be avoided at all costs. One can easily avoid the pain and inconvenience of tooth extraction by seeking the help of an experienced dentist.
It is worthwhile to note that you risk the chance of not being able to save your tooth the longer you postpone treatment. Take the time to read the information compiled below by our experts. It includes common myths about root canal treatment that may discourage you from undergoing the procedure.
Myth: Root Canals are Painful
The misconceptions about painful root canals date back to when anesthetics were not available. Today, this is not the case! If performed appropriately, a modern root canal should have a similar feeling to a regular filling. A majority of patients who have undergone root canal treatment in Toronto recently can attest to that. Perhaps, the only slight difference between a filling and root canal treatment is the length of the procedures. In most instances, it is rare for a root canal to be a painful experience. Dentists use contemporary and sophisticated anesthetics to warrant that this does not happen. Root canal treatment should relieve pain if an abscess or serious cavity has developed.
Myth: Root Canals are Too Expensive
This is a hard myth to dismiss. Mainly, this is because every dentist has his or her rates. Some dentists are exorbitant, while others are much cheaper than expected. Therefore, the truth of this myth may depend on the choice of the specialist and surgery. However, it is a misconception to believe that all root canals are very expensive.
In most cases, this treatment has proven to be more expensive than some routine procedures like fillings or cleanings. The root canal procedure takes longer since it is more complex and requires more skills and experience. Moreover, root canals are cheaper than having a tooth extracted and replaced with a customized bridge. In the end, root canal treatment helps patients to avoid repeat visits, which may turn out to be expensive.
Myth: Teeth Remain Sensitive After Treatment
According to confirmations from experienced dentists, there should be no pain or sensitivity around the treated tooth once the swelling and soreness have subsided. If pain persists, you should promptly consult a specialist as soon as possible. It may be a hidden problem unnoticed by the dentist before the root canal treatment. Nonetheless, this is a rare occurrence, and thus, one should not worry about it. Despite that, you have to revisit your dentist or any other dental clinic in Toronto for advice about the next course of action.
Myth: Infections are Common after Treatment
The incidence of getting infections following root canal treatments is neither unusually high nor unusually low. Precisely, there is a very good chance that a patient may not get any infections. However, there is nothing unusually serious or urgent about it if it indeed happens. If it is a re-infection case, however, further treatment and dental care is needed. The only drawback to root canals is that there is no way to prevent infections from recurring.
There are only so many apparatuses used by the dentist to fill the empty tooth structure safely. Unfortunately, none of them can guarantee a barrier to bacteria. Amidst all this, the good news is that major breakthroughs are being made and employed. Currently, dental scientists are testing the utilization of nanodiamonds in guttapercha as a technique for reducing the chances of infections.
In a nutshell, these myths among others, make a vast majority of patients feel some degree of apprehension, worry, or fear about getting root canal treatment. The best advice is always to visit a dentist office near you for advice or the most appropriate solutions. Indeed, root canal myths are common and can lead to unnecessary dental anxiety.
That makes it always vital to check or get the facts from a dentist before making any dental health decisions. If you are in Toronto, schedule a consultation with one of our experts at Bloor Lansdowne. We are dedicated to examining our patient’s unique situations, addressing any concerns, and advising on the next steps.