At Gentle Smiles of Colorado, we provide you with quality dental treatment. One of the most common procedures is a root canal. If you need one, it's understandable to have some fear about pain and discomfort. Fortunately, these five common myths debunked about root canals can ease your mind.
Root Canals Are Painful
Our Denver cosmetic dentist has heard questions from many patients about root canals. One of the most common is whether the procedure hurts. This is a long-time myth that causes many people to skip this dental treatment when they need it. You are given local anesthesia for a root canal, so you won't feel any pain during the procedure. The dentist will also recommend over-the-counter pain medication to take later so you can relieve your discomfort.
A Root Canal Can Make You Sick
Another common myth about root canals is that they can make you sick. Some believe the procedure lowers the immune system, increasing the risk of illness. Dr. Tim Wachuta has reassuring news for those who think this is true. A root canal does not cause you to become sick. Instead, the procedure involves removing tooth decay within the pulp in the teeth, decreasing the risk of infection.
Recovery from Root Canals Is Long and Difficult
A big fear many patients express to our Denver cosmetic dentist is that they believe root canals have a long, difficult recovery. However, your discomfort disappears only a few days after your procedure. You should start to feel better within that period, which indicates your recovery is progressing. Of course, if you experience pain or strange symptoms after your root canal, contact our office for a follow-up.
Root Canals Involve Removing Tooth Roots
It's fair to believe that a root canal involves removing the roots of the teeth because of its name, but this is a myth. Dr. Tim Wachuta examines your teeth and removes the infected tissue during your treatment. Tooth roots are kept in place because they affix your teeth to your jawbone. The only time they're removed is during a tooth extraction.
A Crown Causes the Need for a Root Canal
A crown is a common dental procedure that many people need when they have issues like gaps or broken or decayed teeth. Some believe if you get a crown, it can cause you to need a root canal. In reality, most people who need root canals don't have crowns. Certain issues can cause an excess of bacteria buildup in your mouth. When severe, a root canal is necessary for relief.
We want you to have healthy teeth and gums and can provide root canal treatment and other procedures. Contact us to schedule an appointment at our Denver office at (303) 756-2770, our Golden office at (303) 278-2800 or our Wheat Ridge office at (303) 425-5100.