When it comes to dentistry, most people have heard some type of horror story. One of the most notorious forms of dental care to receive, in many people’s eyes, is a root canal in Reno, and that’s mainly due to the myths that circulate about it. But are they true? Read on to learn what an expert has to say about this form of restorative care.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal (also called a pulpectomy) is a procedure that is used when decay has bypassed the enamel and dentin layers of the tooth and has entered the very sensitive inner area where the nerves and canals are housed. As a result, the patient may experience severe pain sensations.
Here are the steps to the procedure:
- First, your endodontist will take X-ray photos of your teeth to locate the decay.
- Local anesthesia is then applied to numb the treatment area.
- An incision is made into the tooth to gain access to the decayed area.
- The infected tissue is then removed, and the area is cleaned thoroughly.
- Finally, a special compound is added to fill the vacated space, and then the tooth is sealed.
Typically, after the procedure is completed, bite impressions will be taken that are sent to a trusted lab that will fabricate a permanent crown. Meanwhile, you’ll be fitted with a temporary crown to protect your tooth.
Although the procedure is usually seamless, there are several myths that many people still hold to be true.
Myth #1 – Root Canal Therapy is Extremely Painful
When people assume that a root canal is painful, they may be basing that on a childhood experience or an account from someone else. The reality, however, is that in the 21st century, root canal therapy causes no more discomfort than a routine cavity filling.
Myth #2 – A Root Canal Can Cause an Illness
Another myth that has been circulating around the internet is that receiving root canal treatment can lead to a disease or infection. The truth, though, is there is no validity to such claims. Furthermore, root canal treatment has a high success rate.
Myth #3 – A Tooth Extraction is More Beneficial
There is a consensus in the field of dentistry that it’s always better to save a tooth whenever possible. Thus, an extraction is one of the last options to consider. One of the reasons this is so is that each tooth plays an integral role in your oral health, as they co-exist in a symbiotic environment where each depends on the natural tension provided by the surrounding teeth.
When a tooth is extracted, then, there is a chance of the adjacent teeth shifting and causing malocclusion (poor bite) and infection. Thus, restoring the tooth is usually a far less complicated endeavor.
Keep in mind, though, that if you suspect you need a root canal, there is a limited window of opportunity to take action. That’s because tooth decay doesn’t stop until it is addressed. Thus, ignoring a problem for too long can further compromise the tooth to a point where there is not enough material left to salvage it.
So to protect your oral health, reach out to your dentist in Reno today to schedule a visit.
About the Author
Dr. Tim Adams earned his DMD degree from Temple University Dental School in Philadelphia. He then went on to serve his country as a member of the United States Army. After completing his military service, he completed the endodontic residency program at Lutheran Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. Dr. Adams uses his expertise to successfully and comfortably provide patients with root canal therapy at Summit Boulevard Dental, and he can be reached for more information through his website.