Making sense of the myths surrounding root canal treatment from your dentist near Antioch

Millions of people feel apprehension about undergoing dental treatment. According to the American Association of Endodontics, which conducted a survey on the topic of dental fears, apprehension typically stems from secondhand information. Of the various stories that people love to tell, those related to the awfulness of root canal therapy seem to top the list.

Many decades ago, certain dental procedures were more complex. The advances in anesthesia and techniques that have come about in our century, however, have made root canal therapy far more comfortable, quick, and effective than ever before. With Dr. Alkhoury, your dentist near Antioch, you will benefit from years of experience and compassionate care in the event root canal therapy is needed.

To feel more confident about undergoing this treatment, it is necessary to understand the reality of the root canal.

Myth #1 – Root canal therapy is painful.

The root canal procedure is one that has long been associated with pain. The pain associated with root canals is from the condition, not the treatment. Extensive damage allows bacteria to travel to the center of the tooth where the pulp, root, and nerves lie. As pulp becomes infected by bacterial activity, nerves send strong pain signals to the brain, worsening if left untreated. To clear the infection and prevent further complications involving bone, the pulp must be removed. Through root canal therapy, the source of tooth pain is eliminated and full function is restored.

Root canal therapy is a procedure performed under local anesthesia, ensuring that you feel no pain throughout treatment. Brentwood Family Dental also incorporates the latest in dental technology to improve comfort and minimize stress related to treatment.

Myth #2 – Root canal therapy is a lengthy procedure.

Some people fear root canal therapy, believing they will spend hours in the dental chair. This procedure is very similar to receiving a dental filling. Root canal treatment involves removing damaged tooth structure and infected pulp, and sterilizing and filling the root chamber. After root canal therapy, the treated tooth can become brittle. To preserve strength, a dental crown is placed over the treated tooth.

Myth #3 – Removing the tooth is easier than having to have a root canal.

It is a popular thought to remove a tooth rather than have root canal therapy. Preservation of natural tooth structure is always the first priority. Removing an infected tooth will eliminate the source of immediate pain. The consequences, however, can be quite extensive. Anytime a tooth is removed, a suitable replacement must be found. Otherwise, surrounding teeth will lean into the space created by the missing tooth, causing misalignment and increasing the risk of periodontal disease.

The practice of extracting a tooth to avoid undergoing root canal therapy would result in the need for dental implant treatment or replacement with a dental bridge. At Brentwood Family Dental, our patients are treated with state-of-the-art technology and extensive experience.

Contact us for your dental care needs.

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