When you have a tooth with deep decay, a faulty crown or other tooth problems, your dentist might recommend having a root canal done. While there are common misconceptions about this procedure, it’s important to understand the truth about root canals in Shelburne, so that you won’t delay having one when you need it. The following are some of the more common myths about root canals.
Root Canals Are Painful
Root canals are assumed to be highly painful procedures. This comes from the earlier days of root canals before advances in anesthesia and dental techniques were made. While root canals might have been painful years ago, they now cause very little discomfort. In fact, having a root canal done is typically only about as uncomfortable as getting a filling for a cavity. Improved anesthetics and techniques have helped make this procedure much less painful.
Root Canals Eliminate Tooth Roots
A root canal involves removing decayed or damaged pulp from inside a tooth and sealing it up to prevent infection. The pulp is the inner part of the tooth that contains cells, tissue and blood vessels. During a root canal, tooth roots are not taken out.
Tooth Extractions Are Preferable to Root Canals
Having a tooth removed or extracted is not actually a better option than a root canal. In fact, root canals are done to help save teeth that would otherwise have to be removed. Saving your natural teeth if possible is better than removing them. A root canal can make this possible, such as when you have a tooth with severe decay.
Root Canals Require Multiple Dental Visits
Root canals can be done in just one or two visits rather than in multiple visits. If you’ve been putting off having one done due to this myth, keep in mind that you won’t have to worry about scheduling a few or several office visits for it.
Root Canals Make You Sick
Having a root canal done does not increase your risk of illness. This procedure can lower your risk of illness and infection that can occur when you leave tooth decay or other tooth problems untreated.
Root Canals Aren’t Safe for Pregnant Women
Pregnant women can have root canals done safely. Dentists take precautions to minimize radiation when taking X-rays and using anesthetics for this procedure. If you’re pregnant, you can discuss your concerns with your dentist if a root canal is recommended for treating a tooth problem.
Importance of Root Canals
If your dentist recommends a root canal, it’s important to have it done sooner rather than later. Root canals remove decayed pulp from your tooth, which helps reduce your risk of infection. Having a root canal done now could also lower your risk of needing to have a tooth pulled later on.
Contact Us for Root Canals in Shelburne
If you need to schedule dental care or need more information on root canals, please contact Shelburne Village Dental for an appointment. Our dentists can evaluate your teeth and determine if a root canal is needed.