For patients who need root canal treatment, it’s easy to get bogged down in misinformation surrounding the actual procedure.

Fortunately, the truth is that root canals are a tried-and-true solution to correcting tooth decay and tooth infection.

Still worried at the thought of getting root canal therapy? Check out 8 facts about root canal procedures that will put your mind at ease:

You’ve probably heard that  root canals  cause an increase in tooth pain. In fact, the opposite is true.

If you’ve been experiencing pain from an infected or decaying tooth, you should experience relief after your root canal procedure.

A root canal removes the decayed or infected portion of the tooth, relieving the sensitivity and pressure caused by inflammation. Many individuals also develop abscesses when tooth decay or infection is present. Abscesses are extremely painful and can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Though an extraction is sometimes necessary when a root canal won’t work, it’s  best to keep your tooth  if possible. Natural teeth cause less discomfort and enable more efficient eating than even the best teeth implants or restorations. Teeth that have their natural roots and supportive tissues also contribute more to overall health.

Another persistent myth about root canals is that they make you more susceptible to illness or infection.

This is simply not true. Root canal techniques and practices have evolved over time, virtually eliminating risks that were once associated with the procedure. There are no recent scientific studies or reports that link root canal procedures to incidences of infection elsewhere in the body.

One of the big reasons people avoid root canals is fear of pain. This is because, historically, the procedure could be painful due to lack of anesthetic and effective pain relief.

However, thanks to modern anesthesia and surgical techniques, root canals are virtually painless. Talk with your dentist about your own levels of pain anxiety or sensitivity. He or she can help you find pain relief options that help make your root canal painless.

Another pervasive myth is that teeth with root canals are weaker than other teeth.

In actuality, they actually function the same as healthy natural teeth once a crown or filling is added. A tooth that has undergone a root canal will feel natural and have the same biting functionality as any other tooth.

If your dentist recommends a root canal, you should have the treatment as soon as possible. If left untreated, your tooth decay could worsen or the tooth may develop a dangerous infection. Eventually, it may progress to the point where a root canal is no longer an option, and a tooth extraction and dental implant are necessary. These options cause more pain and downtime and cost more money than a simple root canal.

While some patients may require additional treatment after a root canal, most root canals  last for the life of the tooth. Patients who practice good oral hygiene and get regular dental cleanings following a root canal have better outcomes than patients who don’t.

The vast majority of root canals–95 percent, in fact–are a success, meaning the treated tooth does not become re-infected at the root. This high success rate reflects the developments and improvements in the procedure over the past few years.

Root canals are a safe, effective option for treating tooth decay or infection.

If you’re in need of a root canal procedure and have questions about the process, schedule an appointment with Dr. William Harris at Patriot Family Dental in Clarksville, Tennessee.

Dr. Harris and his wonderful staff will make you feel right at home and answer your questions to make you feel as comfortable as possible for your root canal.

The post The Truth About Root Canals: 8 Myth Breaking Facts appeared first on Patriot Family Dental.