The Truth About Root Canals: Debunking Common Myths and Misconceptions

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about root canals if you search the Internet. These false facts can easily make you fear root canals because you’re unfamiliar with the treatment. If you’ve been avoiding it because you heard it’s painful or that it can make you sick, you could not be more wrong. This article is here to help debunk those myths you’ve heard. You can also talk to your dentist or endodontist about your concerns.

Myth #1: It’s Painful to Treat the Root Canal

Root canal treatment used to be painful, but that was decades ago. The time when it was painful to get your cavity filled ended when anesthetics and modern technology came to be. The pain is not due to the procedure but due to the severe toothache caused by damaged tissue.
 

Removing said damaged tissue helps the endodontist remedy the cavity and ease the pain. Moreover, endodontists are great at helping patients manage pain, and root canal treatments are often quick.

Myth #2: You Will Get Sick After a Root Canal Treatment

This myth came from a poorly designed study made almost a hundred years ago. The research was conducted when medicine was less reliable than today, so there was always a risk of getting sick from any treatment. Modern medicine has already made a clearer understanding of what causes many diseases. In the case of a root canal, there is no scientific evidence that it can make you ill.

Myth #3: Root Canals Can Cause Cancer

Rumor has it that root canals can cause cancer. Well, this is scientifically incorrect and is a health hazard too. Nothing supports the supposed causality between root canal treatment and cancer. A study conducted in 2013 suggested the opposite. According to that study, people who had root canal treatments have less chance of getting mouth cancer.

This myth is the result of Price’s unreliable research, which has flaws. Regardless, many dentists and patients believe root canal causes cancer even though no peer-reviewed controlled studies support it. The worst thing is the short-lived documentary called “Root Cause,” which led to the recent resurgence of the myth.

Myth #4: Pulling the Tooth Is Better Than Root Canal Treatment

Regarding dental care, the best option is always to save your natural teeth. No artificial teeth can function or look the same as your natural tooth. So, it means that your best option is still root canal treatment. It will increase the chance of saving your natural tooth and possibly make it last a lifetime.

Myth #5: You Can’t Have Root Canal Treatment While Pregnant

A root canal is safe during pregnancy. The American Congress of Obstetricians, Gynecologists, and the American Dental Association say so. Not only is it safe — you can get a root canal with local anesthetics, either with epinephrine or not.

They also approve the use of antibiotics such as amoxicillin and penicillin. Your dentists can also perform X-rays if they use thyroid and abdominal shielding.

For more information on root canal misconceptions and myths, call Castro Valley Dentistry at (510) 674-0900. Visit our office in Castro Valley, California. Our team of experts are ready to assist you today.