Root canals have a bad reputation. Fortunately, advancements in dentistry have simplified this crucial treatment, improving patient experience. A root canal in Albion is an important dental treatment that can relieve pain, prevent you from losing a tooth, and protect your overall oral health.
When you understand how to separate the common myths about root canals from the facts, you can alleviate any anxiety surrounding this dental treatment.
Myth 1: Getting a Root Canal in Albion Is Painful
One common concern about root canal treatment is the anticipated pain and discomfort. Decades ago, there may have been some truth to this myth. However, modern techniques don’t cause any more discomfort than getting a filling.
Toothaches are typically caused by an infection or inflammation of the tissues inside the tooth.[1]A root canal in Albion relieves this discomfort by removing the infection and replacing the internal tissues. This treatment is performed under local anesthetic, ensuring the tooth being treated is numb so you won’t feel any sensation.
After root canal therapy, you may have some soreness that persists for a few days. In most cases, you can manage it with over-the-counter pain relievers as instructed by your dentist.
Myth 2: My Tooth Doesn’t Hurt, So I Don’t Need Treatment
Many believe you only need a root canal in Albion when your tooth is extremely painful. But everyone experiences pain differently. Sometimes, the problematic tooth may only be detected during a routine checkup with your dentist.
In some cases, the tooth may not be painful because a fistula (a pimple-like bump) has formed near it.[2] A fistula prevents pressure from building up and causing pain, allowing the infection to spread to other areas.
If you have a persistent toothache that suddenly stops, the nerves inside the tooth may have died. You’ll no longer have any sensation in that tooth. However, bacteria may still spread and damage surrounding tissue. It is vital to seek dental care even if you aren’t in pain.
Myth 3: Root Canal Therapy Causes Health Problems
Many believe a root canal causes illness, but this has been debunked.[3] The root canal myth first appeared in the early 1920s when Dr. Weston Price proposed a theory that tooth infections cause specific diseases. He believed that a tooth treated with root canal therapy still contained toxins that could lead to heart disease, arthritis, and other health conditions.
Since then, many scientific studies have been conducted. According to the American Association of Endodontists, no evidence exists linking root canals to health problems, including cancer, in any other area of the body.[3]
Getting a root canal in Albion is safe and allows your dentist to save a badly decayed or damaged tooth. Without this dental procedure, you might need a tooth extraction or compromise your oral and physical health.
Myth 4: You Only Need Root Canal Treatment to Save the Tooth
Root canal treatment involves removing damaged or infected tissues inside a tooth, cleaning and shaping the cavity, and filling the open space with a natural material called “gutta-percha.” However, that isn’t the final step in your treatment.
Your dentist in Albion, NY, will discuss how to protect the treated tooth to ensure it remains strong and functions correctly. While a custom dental crown is necessary for most patients, sometimes a large filling will work to protect the tooth from further damage.
Myth 5: I’ll Have to Schedule Multiple Long Appointments
Thanks to modern technology, most root canals in Albion can be completed in a single 60- to 90-minute appointment. Some require no more than two visits (one follow-up appointment after the treatments), but these are case-based and depend on the type and severity of the infection.
Myth 6: Tooth Extraction Is the Better Option
Another misconception about dental procedures is that tooth removal is a better alternative to root canal treatment. Some believe that extracting a decayed tooth is the best way to resolve the issue; however, it’s not always the best choice.
Tooth extraction can cause other oral health issues. For example, your teeth might shift and become misaligned. Since a root canal keeps the natural tooth structure, including the roots, intact, it prevents this complication. To maintain optimal oral health, preserving your teeth should always be a top priority.
Preserve Your Oral Health With a Root Canal in Albion
Don’t let root canal myths and misconceptions scare you away from caring for your teeth. With the guidance of an experienced dentist and a dental crown or filling for protection, you can preserve your dental health and restore its function. If you think you need a root canal, Albion Family Dental can help. Call 585-589-9044 to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation.
Sources:
[1] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10957-toothache