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Good news: A big fear that surrounds dentistry and dental visits is no longer warranted.

Dentistry has come a very long way in improving procedures that not only improve oral health but also lessen the pain associated with those procedures. There was a day and time when a visit to the dentist was daunting and uncomfortable – but technological and medical advancements have reduced the pain substantially.

Times have changed, so it’s time to put the myths to rest. Especially those surrounding root canals.

Why Do I Need a Root Canal?

When a dentist prescribes a root canal, it is because there is a crack in a tooth or heavy decay that is causing an infection in the tooth’s root. A root canal is therefore performed to clean out and replace infected pulp (soft tissue) that is present in the root of the tooth.

A root canal will save the infected tooth, which would otherwise rot away. Without the procedure, this infection would become more and more painful.

Root Canal Myths

A patient who undergoes a root canal could fall ill as a result of the procedure. This idea has no scientific evidence to support it. A root canal will not cause future diseases to take root (no pun intended).

Pulling an infected tooth is a better option than having a root canal. Saving natural teeth is always the best option when possible. A root canal is specifically performed to save the natural tooth, and the treatment is long-lasting – often lasting a lifetime. It is better to save the tooth than to replace it with an implant (artificial tooth) or with a bridge. These procedures take longer to conclude, are more complicated, and may require multiple visits.

A root canal is very painful. This used to be true, but no more. Any pain experienced by the dental patient is minimal – it’s comparable to that of having a cavity filled. Additionally, anesthesia that is available with today’s dental procedures eliminates pain, as the patient sleeps through the procedure. When the damaged root is removed, then the pain associated with it disappears.

A tooth that has undergone a root canal becomes more susceptible to decay. In general, a tooth that has undergone a root canal isn’t any more susceptible to tooth decay than the other teeth that surround it. A root canal doesn’t eliminate the possibility of decay, but it doesn’t increase the possibility either. A root canal simply eliminates present decay that has infected a tooth.

Pain-Free Dentist in South Florida

Tooth pain can be a sign of a simple cavity or worse. When the tooth has become infected, then a root canal will be necessary.

But have no fear. Dr. Ernie Soto of Cosmetic, Implant & Sedation Dentistry of Plantation can provide treatment that is comfortable for you.

Dr. Soto is licensed to provide IV sedation (intravenous sedation), which will render your experience pain-free. Call us to request an appointment today at (954) 368-6264 or use our appointment request form now. We look forward to making your visit to the dentist a relaxing, enjoyable experience!