When you hear “root canal,” do you cringe? Root canals in the Tulsa area have received a negative stigma over the years, but that shouldn’t be the case. Our techniques, technology, and anesthetics can make this common procedure comfortable and quick.
Let us help you put your mind at ease by debunking five root canal myths and how we can help make your visit comfortable.
Myth 1: Treatment is Painful
There’s the stigma root canal is a painful, excruciating procedure. But, the truth is root canal therapy is performed to relieve pain. Root canals are needed when an untreated cavity spreads to the pulp of your tooth and causes an infection. This is where the pain comes from, not the procedure itself.
Either your dentist or our referred endodontists will numb the area around the infected tooth where you will hardly feel anything during the procedure. Once complete, the excruciating pain you’ve experience before will disappear, and your tooth will be saved.
Myth 2: Root Canals Cause Illness
This common misconception indicates root canals can lead to negative health risks such as heart disease, kidney disease, and much more. However, this isn’t the case. Recent studies have proven that root canal therapy is a safe and effective procedure.
Myth 3: Root Canals Are Irrelevant if You’re Not in Pain
Just because you’re not in pain doesn’t mean your smile is in pristine condition. Maintaining regular dental visits can help us catch the early stages of severe decay, and predict whether you need a root canal.
Getting your root canal done early is a way to skip all the pain you would have to go through once your tooth severely becomes infected. It’s best to get regular check-ups to avoid the pain and complications from an infected tooth.
Myth 4: It’s a Lengthy Process
Many people believe root canal therapy requires many visits, but that’s not the case. A follow-up may need to occur, but the procedure can be completed in one visit, depending on the case. Your dentist can perform root canals conveniently in the dental office. However, for difficult cases, we will refer you to a talented specialist. We’ve established working relationships with multiple leading endodontists in the area to ensure effective treatments without needless delays.
Myth 5: It is Better to Pull the Tooth
There’s the rumor that root canal therapy is short-term. However, modern techniques and technology has made the procedure predictable with high success rates.
While people prefer extractions over the root canal, it’s important to save your natural teeth. Your natural smile is the strongest and long-lasting solution to maintain a healthy life. Once your tooth is gone, it’s gone. A dental implant and bridge cannot replace the effective function a natural tooth can.
We’ll gladly educate you and answer all your questions about root canal therapy. We offer fantastic methods to save your tooth, and will go the extra mile to make sure you’re comfortable during your procedure.
Don’t let these robust myths stop you from root canal therapy! Call us today to schedule your consultation. Your smile will thank you!