Inarguably, root canal therapy is one of the most misunderstood dental treatments by a good number of people. Considering that it is not as common as having a cavity filled, some individuals may have misconstrued opinions about this therapy because they may not know anybody who has undergone the treatment. As a result, it is always shrouded in mystery with many people assuming that it is a painful experience. In truth, root canal treatments are relatively common, and the prospect of one should not give you any anxiety. This article seeks to busts three prevailing myths surrounding root canal therapy.

Myth 1: Root canal therapy is extraordinarily painful

When you require root canal therapy, it typically means that the pulp in your tooth has become infected with bacteria causing rapid decay. The pulp can become an easy target for infection when you develop cracks in your tooth or if your crown has become compromised. When the infection is left untreated, it leads to progressive rot, and this ultimately causes debilitating pain in your tooth. Root canal treatment entails the elimination of the decayed pulp and restoration of normalcy to your tooth. Hence, contrary to popular belief, root canal therapy functions to alleviate the pain you are experiencing rather than cause more. Moreover, this treatment is carried out with localised anesthesia so you will not feel the probing and extraction as it happens!

Myth 2: Root canal therapy is more intensive than tooth extraction

When some people hear about how infected their tooth pulp is, they may assume that having the entire tooth removed will be the fastest course of action. However, this is inaccurate. While tooth extraction may seem faster, the reality is that it requires several in-office visits before your oral health is restored. Not only is the tooth removed, but you also have to be fitted for a tooth replacement and then revisit the office to have the prosthetic replacement installed. Thus, you end up spending more time and money on extraction. Root canal therapy, on the other hand, will largely depend on the extent of the decay. If caught in good time, you may only need a couple of dental visits to complete your treatment.

Myth 3: Root canal therapy renders your tooth dead

Another misconception people have about pulp removal is that the tooth will be considered dead. To the contrary, root canal treatment functions to preserve your tooth. So while the decayed pulp is extracted, the remaining parts of the tooth will still be functional, which is much better than having a gap in your teeth.