Discerning What Is True and False Regarding the Myths Surrounding Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy remains one of the most commonly prescribed, yet widely feared dental procedures. And the source of this fear is largely unfounded in a majority of people. A good number of individuals that are terrified of the thought of receiving root canal treatment have never undergone this therapy before, which begs the question, why are so many people afraid of this procedure? This anxiety can be attributed to the fact that there is a multitude of myths associated with root canal therapy, making it challenging for one to know what to truly expect. The reality, though, is that getting this procedure is as simple as getting a filling at your dentist's. Read the following piece to help you discern what is true and false regarding the myths surrounding root canal therapy.
Myth 1: Getting a root canal is excruciatingly painful
Unquestionably, the foremost reason why a good amount of the population remains wary of receiving root canal therapy is the thought of having to undergo severe pain during the process. But this is grossly untrue. What you need to take into account is that this treatment not only helps with eliminating the pain you are currently experiencing, but the procedure itself does not cause the patient any anguish.
To begin with, the dentist will administer anaesthesia into your jaw area close to the affected tooth. Thus, you will not feel any discomfort as this ensure area will be numb. Secondly, the extraction of the decaying pulp eases the discomfort that you have been feeling so you are bound to feel better immediately after the procedure. Lastly, the dentist will prescribe pain medications to manage post-surgical pain, so your recovery should go off without a hitch.
Myth 2: Having the affected tooth extracted is better than root canal therapy
The second myth that several people believe regarding root canal therapy is that they would rather set an appointment for tooth extraction, as it will be faster and less painful. However, while a tooth extraction may rid you of the current problem you are dealing with, it does present the risk of developing other oral issues. For starters, tooth extraction leaves room in your gums and over time, the surrounding teeth begin to shift to occupy the space. Resultantly, you start noticing your teeth are becoming progressively crooked, which would necessitate alignment treatments in the form of braces.
Secondly, a missing tooth also will cause issues with eating, speech and more. Instead of getting rid of the tooth, you should opt for root canal therapy. This procedure restores the health and function of your tooth without you having to contend with negative consequences as you would with a complete extraction.
To learn more about root canals, reach out to a local dentist.
Share