Root canals often have a bad reputation, largely due to outdated information and common misconceptions. In reality, modern root canal treatment is a safe and effective way to relieve pain and save natural teeth. If you’ve been told you need a root canal, understanding the facts can help ease your concerns. Here are 4 important truths about root canals you should know.
1. Root Canals Relieve Pain—They Don’t Cause It
One of the biggest myths about root canals is that they are painful. The truth is that a root canal is designed to eliminate pain, not create it. Tooth pain usually comes from infection or inflammation inside the tooth. During a root canal, the dentist removes the infected pulp and cleans the area, stopping the source of discomfort. With modern anesthetics and techniques, most patients say the procedure feels similar to getting a filling.
2. Root Canals Save Your Natural Tooth
Another important truth is that root canals help preserve your natural tooth. Extracting a tooth may seem like a faster solution, but missing teeth can lead to shifting, bite problems, and bone loss. A root canal allows you to keep your tooth structure intact while restoring function and appearance, often with a dental crown. Saving your natural tooth is usually the healthiest long-term option.
3. Root Canal Treatment is Very Common and Safe
Root canals are one of the most common dental procedures performed today. Millions are done each year with a high success rate. Advances in dental technology, imaging, and sterilization have made the procedure safer and more predictable than ever. Complications are rare, especially when treatment is done promptly and followed by proper restoration.
4. Delaying a Root Canal Can Make Problems Worse
Ignoring the need for a root canal won’t make the problem go away. Infections inside a tooth can spread to surrounding tissue, bone, or even other parts of the body. Delaying treatment often leads to increased pain, swelling, and the possibility of tooth loss. Early intervention typically means a smoother procedure and faster recovery.
What to Expect After a Root Canal
After treatment, mild tenderness is normal for a few days and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Once a crown is placed, the tooth functions like any other natural tooth.
Root canals aren’t something to fear; they’re a solution that relieves pain, stops infection, and saves your smile. Knowing these 4 truths can help you feel more confident and informed if you ever need root canal treatment, turning a once-feared procedure into a positive step toward better oral health.
About the Practice
Here at Dr. Gabriel Nossa Family, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, we can stop your pain and save your tooth with root canal therapy. We focus on your comfort to ensure that your experience will be a pleasant one and can even offer sedation dentistry to that end for anxious patients. We won’t cause you pain – we’ll fix it. Don’t delay and let your pain linger, schedule an appointment now online or call our Gainesville office at (352) 332-8133.