When you hear you need a root canal treatment, thoughts of a painful, scary procedure may come to mind. The good news is that today’s root canals are nothing like those of the past, thanks to modern dental technology and techniques. Our team at Noblesville Dental Associates is ready to set the record straight and debunk the most common myths surrounding root canal therapy.

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

Inside every tooth is a space called the pulp chamber that houses nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Deep decay, trauma, chips, fractures, damaged dental restorations, or repeated dental procedures can often lead to tooth pulp inflammation or infection. Without treatment, tooth pulp damage can lead to severe pain, an abscess, bone loss around the tooth’s root, and even tooth loss. Worse yet, the infection can spread to the neighboring teeth and enter your bloodstream, putting your health at risk.

Root canal therapy involves the removal of the damaged pulp tissue, cleaning and reshaping your root canals, and placing a biocompatible material to prevent reinfection. After treatment, we will create a custom crown to protect your affected tooth and restore its function and natural appearance.

What Are Common Myths Around Root Canal Therapy?

The following are some of the most common root canal therapy myths debunked:

Myth: Root Canal Therapy Is Extremely Painful

Severe pain during treatment is the most common misconception. In reality, root canal therapy relieves pain rather than causing it. The intense pain that sends you to the dentist is caused by the infection or inflammation inside the tooth, which root canal therapy can alleviate. With today’s modern technology, anesthetics, and sedation dentistry options, the procedure is much more comfortable than in the past.

Myth: Recovering After Root Canal Therapy Is Excruciating

You may have heard that the recovery period is extremely painful. The truth is that most patients can get back to work and resume their daily routines the very next day. If, however, you experience discomfort, over-the-counter or prescription medication can help.

Myth: It’s Better to Pull the Tooth Out

People sometimes believe it’s easier to remove a tooth than deal with a root canal treatment. However, saving a natural tooth is always the best option for your smile. Pulling an infected tooth can lead to costly and complex issues down the road, including bone loss, shifting of adjacent teeth, and the need for costly replacements, such as implants or bridges, to restore your bite. With root canal therapy, your treated tooth has the potential to last a lifetime.

Myth: Root Canals Cause Illness

There is no valid scientific evidence linking modern root canal therapy to cancer or any other illness. This myth is based on outdated research from the early 1900s that has been discredited. In fact, by eliminating a chronic bacterial infection within the tooth, the procedure actually improves your overall health by removing a potential source of systemic inflammation.

Myth: Only Painful Teeth Require Root Canal Therapy

While a throbbing toothache is often a sign of inner pulp damage, a tooth requiring a root canal may be completely asymptomatic. The infection or damage to the pulp can be present and worsening without you experiencing any noticeable pain. Visiting Noblesville Dental Associates twice a year for routine dental exams and cleanings can help uncover problems requiring root canals.

Root Canal Therapy Near Me in Noblesville, IN

Don’t let myths prevent you from seeking relief. Root canal therapy can alleviate your pain rather than causing it, and it can save your tooth by restoring its health and function. At Noblesville Dental Associates, we are committed to providing exceptional, compassionate care you can trust and ensuring you enjoy the best possible patient experience. We invite you to call 317-773-2983 to schedule your appointment or request one through our contact form today.