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The truth behind the myths surrounding this treatment
One of the most dreaded of all of the dental procedures next to braces is the root canal.
Unfairly judged, this fairly straightforward treatment is feared by many dental patients, due to myths about it causing excessive levels of discomfort and creating more issues than it resolves.
If your dentist in Buckinghamshire recommends a root canal to you, before you run a mile, consider that most dental treatments have received unfair press due to a lack of knowledge and fear of pain. As mentioned before, all root canals are straightforward and aim to reduce further problems from occurring. In fact, as you are likely to require a root canal due to a recent dental infection, this endodontic treatment is actually going to resolve any discomfort you have been having while preventing future discomfort too.
So, what is the truth behind these myths about root canals?
Myth 1- Root canals are painful
The root of this myth is fairly simple to place.
Many people who have approached their dentist in Buckinghamshire to have a root canal are likely to have recently experienced a dental infection. As an infection or abscess in the mouth is not exactly comfortable, many people make the connection between the discomfort and the procedure, not the infection.
Root canals actually eliminate the discomfort caused by a dental infection. However, post-treatment, you may feel a sensation similar to a bruise on your jaw, but don’t worry. This is typical and should stop in a few days.
Myth 2- It will damage my tooth
Root canals do not damage teeth and actually, once the crown or filling is placed on top of the treated tooth, it actually becomes stronger.
Once again, this myth is likely to have originated from someone who did not complete the entire treatment and experienced some unpleasant repercussions.
Myth 3- I will lose all feeling in the treated tooth
Having a root canal actually has very little to do with the root of the tooth.
As many people are surprised at the comfort they feel after this treatment, it was assumed for a long time that the dental professional had actually removed the nerve of the tooth, which is near the root. However, the treatment involves removing all of the infected debris and pus from the tooth and does not cause a lack of feeling afterward.
Myth 4- A tooth that has had a root canal is more likely to break
Once again, this myth probably originated from someone who either had a poor root canal performed or did not go back for the filling or crown to be placed.
Root canals do not cause any weakening of the teeth and, as mentioned before, actually strengthen them.
Myth 5- It is easier to have the tooth removed than have a root canal
Perhaps, if the affected tooth is located at the back.
However, if the tooth is near the front, in order to keep your smile intact and looking healthy, a root canal is your best option.