Root canal treatment is something no one looks forward to, but its reputation is actually worse than the reality of treatment in most cases. Let’s get the facts straight and dispel some of the myths surrounding root canals.
What is a root canal?
The inside of your tooth contains pulp, which basically keeps the tooth alive and healthy. When the pulp becomes infected as a result of severe tooth decay, the pulp must be removed and replaced with a material that prevents future infections. A root canal is often the best way to save your tooth from extraction, or other health issues from the infection. Sometimes a crown is recommended after a root canal to restore a weakened tooth.
Will I know I need a root canal based on pain?
It is a myth that your tooth must hurt a lot in order to need a root canal. Sometimes a tooth can be severely damaged without causing you much pain. That’s one reason regular dental visits are important so that problems can be caught that you might not realize are there. If your dentist sees signs of a problem, there are tests that may be performed to determine the extent of the damage.
Is the pain of treatment as bad as I’ve heard?
Root canals have the reputation of intense pain. With advancements in technology, this is no longer true. Anesthesia is used to deaden the area, and if you follow your dentist’s instructions after the procedure, a root canal is often no different than getting a filling.
Are multiple appointments required?
A root canal may be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the extent of your infection or need for more extensive procedures.
Does a root canal cause other illnesses?
It is a myth that root canals can cause illnesses like heart or kidney disease and arthritis. There is no medical evidence supporting these claims.
Will it fix my problem for good?
Some people suggest that root canal treatment doesn’t last because the tooth can later break. This is associated with failure of the tooth restoration, not the root canal itself. Many dentists recommend getting a crown on a weakened tooth to prevent breakage.
We treat patients from Aventura and the surrounding area
