Root canals often get a bad reputation, but much of what people believe about them simply isn’t true. Thanks to modern technology and improved techniques, root canal therapy is safer, more comfortable, and more effective than ever before. If fear or misinformation has kept you from getting treatment, let’s bust 5 of the most common myths about root canals.
Myth #1: Root Canals Are Extremely Painful
One of the biggest misconceptions is that root canals are something to dread because they hurt. In reality, root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain, not cause it. Most discomfort comes from the infection inside the tooth before the procedure. Modern dentistry uses effective local anesthesia and, in some cases, sedation options to keep you completely comfortable during the process. Afterward, mild soreness is normal, but it’s usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Myth #2: Tooth Extraction is a Better Option
Some people think it’s easier to just pull the tooth rather than go through a root canal. While extraction may seem like a quick fix, it can lead to other problems like shifting teeth, bone loss, and difficulty chewing. Root canal treatment saves your natural tooth, preserving your bite and avoiding the need for costly replacements like bridges or implants. Keeping your natural tooth is almost always the healthier, more affordable option in the long run.
Myth #3: Root Canals Take Several Appointments
In the past, root canal treatment might have required multiple visits, but that’s rarely the case today. With digital imaging, rotary instruments, and advanced techniques, many root canals can be completed in just one visit. Your dentist will let you know if more than one appointment is necessary, but most patients find the process faster than they expected.
Myth #4: Root Canals Make You Sick
There’s an outdated myth that root canals can cause illness elsewhere in the body. This misconception stems from research that was debunked nearly a century ago. Modern studies show no link between root canals and systemic disease. In fact, leaving an infected tooth untreated is far more dangerous for your overall health, as oral infections can spread to other parts of the body.
Myth #5: You Don’t Need a Root Canal if the Tooth Doesn’t Hurt
Lack of pain doesn’t always mean your tooth is healthy. Infected teeth can stop hurting when the nerve inside dies, but the infection may still be present and spreading. Regular dental checkups and X-rays are key to detecting problems early before they become more serious or require more complex treatment.
Root canals have come a long way and are no longer something to fear. They’re safe, comfortable, and highly effective at saving teeth and stopping pain. If your dentist recommends a root canal, you can feel confident that it’s the best choice to protect your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Dana Kim is a graduate of the New York University College of Dentistry. She serves as an adjunct clinical faculty member at her alma mater, where she has the opportunity to teach and mentor future dentists. This role allows her to stay current with the latest techniques and research while sharing her expertise with the next generation of dental professionals. Dr. Kim also stays current through memberships in the American Dental Association and the American Association of Endodontists. If you have a damaged tooth that needs saving with a root canal, schedule an appointment through our website or call our Bloomfield office at (973) 281-4184.