A root canal is considered an awful experience — pretty much universally. Why? Because of the dreaded pain.
But, hold on. We’ve got some good news to debunk whatever horror stories you’ve heard from friends and family about root canals, however.
Modern Age Dentistry proudly proclaims our mission, “Where science is committed to art,” through the care we provide during every visit. You can count on the fact that whatever you need — routine care, cosmetic dentistry like whitening, or a more complex procedure like a root canal — you’ll receive the most advanced, compassionate care.
Dr. Ali Saeghi and his caring team are committed to providing just the care you need promptly and efficiently, while making you feel welcome and valued.
In truth, you shouldn’t feel as if you’re in for the worst punishment of your life if you receive the news that you need a root canal. This is a procedure where Dr. Saeghi creates a minute opening in the top portion of your affected tooth so he can access the soft pulp in the center of it that’s unhealthy due to infection, damage, or inflammation.
After he removes the pulp, Dr. Saeghi thoroughly cleans and dries the area. The next step is filling the hole he made temporarily. After several weeks, he typically places a restoration, like a crown, on the tooth.
Here, we break down some persistent root canal myths — and replace them with truths.
Myth: Root canal pain will be incomparable; it’s pure agony
Fact: The worst pain typically comes before your root canal procedure
The symptoms that indicate you need a root canal, which include severe tooth pain, gum inflammation and tenderness, and intense hot and cold sensitivity, to name a few, are far worse than the root canal procedure itself.
This is an instance in which reality from long ago is the perception of today. However, today’s root canals simply aren’t the same as those of years ago. At Modern Age Dentistry, we use the most advanced methods to provide pain relief, as well as progressive approaches to relieve dental anxiety — check out our adorable therapy dog, Princess, for example — so you don’t feel a thing during the procedure.
We continuously check on how you’re feeling and monitor you carefully.
Myth: A root canal involves the removal of your tooth’s roots
Fact: Not true. As we outlined earlier, Dr. Saeghi removes pulp only.
Myth: Getting a root canal can cause illness.
Fact: Absolutely not. Some disreputable information on the internet includes claims that you can become sick after the procedure or develop a systemic disease years down the road.
This conclusion is a relic from disproven and poorly executed research that was done almost 100 years ago, when we had a much more limited understanding of how disease develops overall.
One claim was that root canals were somehow associated with the development of cancer, while in reality, modern-day research reflects that those who underwent multiple endodontic procedures actually had a risk of cancer that was 45% lower than those who hadn’t.
Myth: I can’t require a root canal if I’m not experiencing tooth pain
Fact: Unfortunately, needing a root canal ultimately has to do with the state of your tooth’s pulp, not necessarily whether you’re feeling discomfort. This is a great argument for being vigilant about getting regular dental care.
One thing that can happen to indicate the need for a root canal is the appearance of what looks like a little pimple near your affected tooth. It’s called a fistula, and it’s a tissue tunnel whose purpose is to drain pus from an infected area. The fistula prevents pain because it stops pressure from developing inside your tissue.
If you notice this, alert Dr. Saeghi so you can get proper treatment.
Myth: I’ll need to lose my tooth anyway, so let’s just pull it now.
Fact: The majority of root canals save infected teeth, which don’t ultimately need to be extracted, so removal isn’t an inevitability.
A root canal is preferable to removal, because having a gap in your smile causes a whole new set of challenges — and they’re not just cosmetic. You can be at risk for your teeth shifting, speech and chewing problems, and bone loss.
Now that you know the REAL truths about root canals, you can feel relieved, satisfied that you no longer have to fear the procedure should you need one. We’re here for you and eager to provide the most advanced root canal treatments that aren’t only clinically successful, but also positive experiences for you!
Contact the Modern Age Dentistry office closest to you to make an appointment, or book one with us online. We’re located in Los Angeles, West Hills, and Ojai, California.
