Root Canals: Three Myths About These Common Restorative Solutions

Root canal therapy is one of the most common restorative dentistry treatments. If your tooth has been damaged by decay or an injury that has broken your enamel, the interior “pulp” can become infected. A root canal procedure will remove damaged pulp and infected tooth material, disinfect your tooth, and save its natural structure.

Despite how common root canals are, there are many common myths about this restorative solution. The Apex dentists at Cardinal Family Dentistry wants to clear up a few pervasive myths about root canal therapy to ensure that our patients are informed about treatment:
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Myth: Root Canals Are Painful And Invasive

‍In reality, root canal therapy is much less painful than the toothache that can be caused by an infected tooth. Root canals are usually performed in just a single 1-2 hour appointment, and your mouth will be numbed by a local anesthetic throughout the entire procedure. At Cardinal Family Dentistry, we offer sedation for all of our patients. If you’re nervous about your root canal treatment, we can help you relax and stay calm and comfortable.‍
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Myth: I Only Need A Root Canal If I Have A Toothache

A toothache is a common indicator of an infected tooth, which requires treatment with a root canal. However, not all infected teeth cause toothaches. Once the nerves in your tooth die, you may not feel any discomfort at all, but your tooth will become brittle and may eventually fall out if left untreated. Regular visits with Dr. Barker will ensure that infected teeth are recognized and treated with root canal therapy before this happens.‍
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Myth: Root Canals Are Too Expensive

Root canals are more costly than preventive care, but they are a bargain compared to the cost of replacing a missing tooth. Root canal therapy is also usually covered by dental insurance.

Compared to other restorative treatments that may become necessary if an infected tooth is left untreated, root canals are very affordable. Preserving your natural tooth is always the best way to keep your smile looking great and prevent future complications.‍
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Contact Us Now If You Think You Have an Infected Tooth!

If you think that you may have an infected tooth in Holly Springs, Cardinal Family Dentistry is here to help. Dr. Barker can examine your mouth and determine if a root canal is the right treatment for you. To get started, contact us at (919) 589-5001 for an appointment, or drop by our office at 1481 Chapel Ridge Road, Apex, NC 27502.