Perhaps due to their portrayal in the media, root canals have earned a somewhat negative reputation. This service is the tried-and-true way to address toothaches, dental infections, and other issues that can significantly detract from your dental health.
As a result, some patients feel so anxious about getting a root canal that they avoid scheduling it. But the truth is that this procedure typically alleviates more concerns than it causes. Continue reading to learn more about 3 falsehoods you might have heard and why you shouldn’t believe them!
Myth #1: It’s Probably Going to Hurt
If you’ve ever seen someone getting a root canal in your favorite television show or movie, there’s a good chance they were yowling in pain or sweating in terror as their dentist approached with a large, intimidating drill. It’s only natural to want to avoid potential discomfort, but thanks to advances in dental materials, technology, and techniques, this treatment usually results in relief rather than additional aches.
For example, many dentists offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) as a sedative to help you feel calm and comfortable the entire time. Then, you might feel tender or swollen during recovery, but these symptoms are usually temporary and fade after a few days. In many cases, over-the-counter medications can provide sufficient relief.
Myth #2: An Extraction is Better for My Smile
Some patients assume that it’s better for their dental health to simply pull the problematic tooth rather than try to repair and restore it. But there are additional risks of tooth loss that you might not have considered.
For instance, did you know your jaw starts to thin without a root in place to stimulate new bone growth each time you bite down? Eventually, it can become too frail to support your remaining teeth, leading to further loss. Meanwhile, your dentist can perform a root canal to repair your injured tooth so you can continue using it normally.
Myth #3: I Can’t Afford the Procedure
If you have a tooth that’s too damaged for other treatments, like a dental filling, to be effective, the last thing you want to have to worry about is whether you can afford the procedure needed to repair it. Many dental insurance companies cover about 50% of the cost, but there are no guarantees the service will be included in your plan, and not all patients carry a policy.
Fortunately, many dentists provide other ways to make their treatments more affordable, such as flexible payment plans through third-party vendors, such as CareCredit. These low- to no-interest options allow you to divide the total cost of your visit into more manageable installments if your application is approved.
If you have additional questions about what to expect from your upcoming root canal, your dentist can share more detailed information based on your unique circumstances!
About the Practice
At Indy Dental Group, you and your family benefit from a team of dentists dedicated to helping you build and maintain the happiest, healthiest versions of your smiles. Their team collaborates to offer a complete menu of services, including root canal procedures, at several different offices, so you can find an available appointment closer to home. Their caring approach is combined with advanced technology to deliver comfortable, accurate results meant to last. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling one of their conveniently located offices near you.