Root canal treatments are often misunderstood and can lead to anxiety when discussed. However, dentists often recommend root canals as a safe and effective dental care procedure. These are some of the myths you may have heard about root canal treatments. 

Top Root Canal Treatment Myths Debunked

1. Root Canal Treatment Hurt

When surgery on and around the teeth gained traction some 200 years ago, root canal treatments and similar procedures were certainly painful. Today, safer practices, local anesthetic, modern technology, and years of research have created a root canal treatment that is not any more painful than having a cavity filled.

2. A Root Canal Can Cause Illness or Infection

This myth stems from an old falsified “study” from 100 years ago claiming illness and infection are more likely after root canal treatment. This supposed research has since been debunked, and there is no compelling evidence to suggest root canal treatment will inevitably lead to infection. Today, root canal treatment is a safe procedure. 

3. It’s Better to Get an Extraction Instead of a Root Canal 

This myth was circulated at the same time as the illness and infection myth, based on the same “study.” In fact, dentists now know that saving your natural tooth is the safest and best option for oral health care. Extractions are more involved and can create more discomfort. Not only that, but bridges, dental implants, or dentures used to cover extraction sites will cost more time and money down the road. 

There are plenty of myths surrounding dental procedures, especially root canal treatments. To know what information is and isn’t truthful, talk to the dentists at Dental Distinctions in Kalispell, MT. Their team is there to provide all of the information you need, as well as high-quality general dentistry and other oral health care. To learn more about their services, visit them online, or call (406) 755-4166 to schedule a dentist appointment.