For many people, the words “root canal therapy” brings to mind thoughts of extreme discomfort and invasive dental care. But myths abound surrounding this important restorative treatment. In reality, modern endodontic care is minimally invasive, and it can save even gravely damaged teeth.
At Town & Country Dental, Dr. Thomas Wegner performs gentle root canal therapy with negligible discomfort and recovery time. Plus, his state-of-the-art dental restorations will leave you with a beautiful smile.
Worried about your root canal? Read on to learn the truth about this treatment. Then contact us to schedule your appointment.
Myth #1: Root Canal Therapy Is Extremely Painful
According to the American Academy of Endodontics, 59% of American adults are afraid of getting a root canal. But with ultramodern techniques, today’s patients have nothing to worry about.
Prior to a root canal, Dr. Wegner will administer local anesthesia. You will feel virtually nothing during the procedure. Afterward, you may experience some minor sensitivity. However, over-the-counter medications are typically enough to ease discomfort until it goes away on their own in a few days.
Myth #2: You’ll Eventually Need an Extraction after a Root Canal
During treatment, Dr. Wegner will remove any diseased tissue from your tooth and root canals. Then he will top your tooth with a custom-made dental crown.
Some patients believe that endodontic treatment is unnecessary since the tooth will eventually need to come out anyway. Actually, root canal therapy has a remarkable success rate of over 97%!
Myth #3: Root Canals Cause Cancer
A flawed, century-old test has perpetuated the myth that cancer and root canals are linked. But there is no modern scientific evidence to support this claim. In fact, one 2013 study suggests that individuals who have root canal therapy are less likely to suffer from head or neck cancer!
Myth #4: After a Root Canal, My Tooth Will Never Look the Same
Our dental crowns are made from advanced materials, including ultra-modern porcelain. As a result, they have an extremely lifelike appearance with a natural sparkle. Plus, Dr. Wegner can find a shade that is a near-perfect match to the color of your smile.
Not only will your smile look natural. The crown will also restore full functionality. Within a few days of treatment, you will be able to eat normally without pain.
Myth #5: After Treatment, Decay Can’t Affect My Tooth
A root canal can save your damaged tooth, but that doesn’t mean that it is immune to further damage. Bacteria can still enter from beneath the crown, leading to additional decay and infection. Fortunately, good oral hygiene can help make sure that you are in the 97% of successful root canal patients.
Learn More about Root Canal Therapy
Don’t let the myths about root canal therapy keep you from enjoying tooth-saving treatment. Contact Town & Country Dental for more information or to book an appointment.
Complete our online contact form or call us at (708) 383-0330.