Root canal therapy is designed to save a tooth that is badly decayed, infected, or otherwise damaged. While root canal therapy may have the reputation of being unpleasantly painful, advances in modern dental technology mean that root canals are easier and more comfortable than ever before! In this post, we bust many of the common myths about this restorative treatment. If you or a loved one has an upcoming root canal procedure, the information below will put you at ease by helping you know what to expect.

Myth 1: Root Canals Are Extremely Painful

In the past, treatments for root canals may have caused pain. Now, with advances in dental techniques, modern root canal therapy alleviates pain — most patients report not experiencing any pain during the treatment and feeling significantly better afterward! Typically, the dental issues that require root canal therapy (an advanced infection, tooth decay, a damaged nerve) do cause pain, but treatment will repair the issue and ease any pain.

Myth 2: You Only Need a Root Canal for a Severe Toothache

While severe toothaches signal that you might need root canal therapy, sometimes patients without pain may still need extensive restoration. For example, you may feel nothing at all if you have a dead tooth, but you’ll need root canal therapy to preserve your tooth’s natural structure.

Myth 3: Root Canals Always Require Multiple Appointments

Typically, our team at West Maitland Dentistry can complete a root canal procedure in one or two appointments. This depends on the scope of the infection or damage, the complexity of the procedure, and whether you need follow-up appointments for additional tooth restoration, like placing a crown.

Gentle Root Canal Therapy in Maitland, FL

Not only does root canal therapy ease pain and repair tooth damage due to infection and decay, but this procedure will also preserve your natural tooth and prevent an extraction. To ask our team any questions about our restorative dental treatments or to schedule your next appointment, contact our office today!