A root canal is an endodontic procedure that eliminates infected tissue and bacteria from inside your tooth and is typically needed if you have an infection or inflammation at the roots of your tooth. However, if you’re not familiar with root canals, you may feel a bit worried about having this procedure done. Is it safe? Is it painful?

There are many myths surrounding root canal safety. It’s a common misconception that this endodontic treatment can cause illness or significant pain. Unfortunately, many people may avoid this procedure that can save their natural tooth. Continue reading to learn what you need to know about root canal safety.

Are Root Canals Painful?

One of the biggest myths surrounding root canals is that they’re extremely painful. Root canals got their start decades ago, and the truth is they didn’t feel so great at first. But according to the American Association of Endodontics, modern technology and current anesthetics ensure you don’t have any more pain than if you simply had a cavity taken care of. In fact, you’ll probably experience some pain relief. Once the damaged tissues inside your tooth have been removed, it eliminates any severe tooth pain you were experiencing. Endodontists are experts in managing your pain, and a root canal can be done comfortably and quickly.

Can Root Canal Treatments Cause Illness?

Rumors have circulated about root canal treatments supposedly causing illness. What’s the truth behind this myth? This claim is actually based on poor research that was done almost a century ago, and it’s been debunked repeatedly. There’s no scientific evidence that links a root canal to any type of illness or disease. This treatment simply won’t cause illness, and choosing a root canal is better than extracting a tooth whenever possible.

GentleWave Technology — The Better Root Canal

One of the new technologies improving root canal safety is GentleWave technology. During a root canal, it’s critical to clean out every bit of tissue, debris, and bacteria from the microscopic places inside of your tooth. The GentleWave procedure is an alternative to a traditional root canal, and uses a combination of broad range soundwaves and fluid dynamics to clean and disinfect the inside of your tooth. This helps to reduce the chance of root canal failure over time and improves both safety and comfort for patients.

Root Canal Safety — The Bottom Line

The bottom line — according to the American Association of Endodontics, around 25 million root canals are performed each year, effectively and safely. There’s no valid evidence showing that a root canal can cause disease or illness elsewhere in your body. What they can offer is a safe way for you to save a natural tooth. Nothing else functions or feels quite like a natural tooth, so saving it whenever possible is an excellent choice.

Don’t base your opinion on root canals on misconceptions floating around the web. You can count on root canal safety and comfort when you visit our doctors at Ballantyne Endodontics.