Over the years, root canal therapy has been viewed in a poor light, as myths and misconceptions shrouded the treatment. These common misconceptions have led to an unwarranted amount of fear and anxiety among dental patients. At Haws Family Dentistry in Brigham City, UT, our root canal dentist, Dr. Jayson Haws, believes in educating our patients and empowering them with accurate information to make informed decisions about their oral health.
To help ease the anxiety of our patients who may need root canal therapy, we will go over five common myths about root canal therapy and illuminate the procedures’ true nature.
Understanding Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure to relieve pain and save a severely decayed or infected tooth. During the process, Dr. Jayson Haws removes the damaged area of the tooth (the pulp), cleans and disinfects it, then fills and seals it. The common perception of root canal therapy is tainted mainly by myths, leading many to view it in a negative light. However, understanding the truth about root canal therapy can significantly change one’s perspective.
Myth 1: Root Canals are Extremely Painful
One of the most prevalent myths is that root canal therapy is a highly painful process. With advancements in dental technology and anesthesia, root canal therapy is performed with minimal discomfort. Most patients report that the procedure is no more painful than placing a filling; many experience immediate relief from pre-treatment pain.
Myth 2: Root Canals Cause Illness Elsewhere in the Body
This myth originated from poorly understood research conducted nearly a century ago, which has since been debunked. No valid scientific evidence supports the claim that root canal therapy causes illness elsewhere in the body. Modern dental practices ensure that root canals are safe procedures that eliminate bacteria from the infected roots, promoting oral and overall health.
Myth 3: Extraction is Always a Better Option
While tooth extraction might seem straightforward, saving your natural tooth is always preferable. Root canal therapy allows you to preserve your tooth’s functionality, which is beneficial for your oral health in the long term. Extracting a tooth can lead to complications, such as misalignment of the remaining teeth and loss of bone mass in the jaw.
Myth 4: Root Canals Require Multiple Visits
The notion that root canal treatment necessitates numerous visits to the dentist needs to be updated. Many root canal procedures can be completed in just one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of the infection and the required restoration. At Haws Family Dentistry, we strive to perform efficient and effective root canal therapy, minimizing the number of visits and maximizing patient comfort.
Myth 5: Root Canals are Only for Decayed Teeth
While root canal therapy is commonly used to treat decayed teeth, it’s not the only reason for the procedure. It may also be necessary for teeth that have developed an infection due to a crack or chip or as a result of repeated dental procedures. It’s a versatile treatment that can save teeth under various types of distress.
The Truth about Root Canal Therapy
The truth is that root canal therapy is a routine dental procedure that provides significant benefits. It effectively relieves pain, saves the natural tooth, and prevents the spread of infection, all with minimal discomfort. Dismissing the myths and understanding the facts can help one make the ultimate choice to undergo root canal therapy much easier.
Benefits of Choosing Root Canal Therapy at Haws Family Dentistry
Choosing Haws Family Dentistry for your root canal treatment ensures you receive care from a skilled and compassionate team dedicated to your comfort and well-being. We use the latest techniques and technology to ensure your procedure is as comfortable and efficient as possible. With exceptional care from our root canal dentist, Dr. Haws, patients in the Brigham City area can achieve the goal of maintaining their natural teeth for a lifetime in a welcoming and stress-free environment.
Root Canal Dentist in Brigham City, UT
By understanding the truth about root canal therapy, patients can get the treatment they need to save their smiles from oral concerns like tooth loss. At Haws Family Dentistry in Brigham City, we are committed to providing our patients with the highest standard of care and information, debunking common myths, and ensuring you can make informed decisions about your dental health. If you need a root canal, don’t hesitate to contact our office today to schedule a consultation.