The Truth about Root Canal Therapy
A root canal infection poses a serious threat to the health of the infected tooth and those adjacent to it. A root canal infection can cause pain, compromise oral functions, and result in tooth loss. But still, many patients are reluctant to undergo root canal therapy. Root canal therapy is simply a restorative dentistry treatment that strengthens the affected tooth and relieves patients of the bothersome side effects associated with a root canal infection. So why is it that patients are so hesitant to undergo root canal therapy at our Staten Island practice? In the experience of Drs. Jason and Alex Hecht, it is because patients have heard false information about root canal therapy. We are here to dispel the myths surrounding root canal therapy and fill patients in on its many benefits.
Myth #1 - Root Canal Therapy is Painful
This is probably the most common myth about root canal therapy. Many of our patients fear that treatment will be a painful experience that leaves them sore for weeks after treatment. This could not be farther from the truth. Patients are adequately anesthetized so that they remain completely comfortable and free of pain throughout root canal therapy treatment. After treatment, the area surrounding the tooth may be sensitive for a few days. However, this pain is significantly less bothersome than the discomfort that was already being experienced as the result of the root canal infection. In short, root canal therapy eliminates pain, rather than causes it.
Myth #2 - I’ll Have to Have My Tooth Extracted Anyway
Many patients have the misconception that root canal therapy is only a temporary solution and that the infected tooth will need to be removed eventually anyway. If this is the case, they figure why bother with treatment to begin with. Again, this is far from the truth. The entire goal of root canal therapy is to save the natural tooth and prevent the need for extraction. By eliminating infected tooth structure, we can preserve healthy tooth structure, and help patients avoid tooth loss.
Myth #3 - It’s Better to Just Have the Tooth Extracted
There are those patients who believe that it is simpler and easier to just have an infected tooth extracted. We always lean toward conservative dental treatments and make it a primary goal of ours to help patients preserve the natural teeth whenever possible. Tooth extraction is one of the more aggressive dental procedures. In addition, tooth loss compromises the strength and structure of the smile and puts adjacent teeth at risk for oral complications. There are many restorative dental treatments that can address tooth loss, but these can be costly and should be avoided if possible.
Benefits
In truth, root canal therapy is a safe and effective dental treatment that can provide patients with the following benefits:
- Strengthens the affected tooth
- Improves the health of the smile
- Eliminates infection
- Eliminates pain and other side effects of root canal infection
- Protects the tooth against further infection
Schedule an Appointment
If you would like to learn more about root canal therapy, schedule an appointment with Dr. Jason or Alex Hecht at your earliest convenience. We can provide you with accurate information about root canal therapy and help you decide if this restorative treatment is right for you. We look forward to hearing from you!
