Few dental treatments have earned a reputation quite like the root canal. For decades, it’s been unfairly labeled as painful, complicated, or something to fear. The truth, however, is far less intimidating — and much more reassuring. Root canal therapy is a common, highly effective procedure designed to save your natural tooth and relieve pain, not cause it. Let’s separate fact from fiction and uncover what you should really know about root canals.
Myth: Root Canals Are Painful
The idea that root canals are painful is one of the most persistent myths in dentistry. In reality, modern root canal therapy is performed using advanced anesthesia and gentle techniques that make it no more uncomfortable than getting a regular filling.
Most patients who need a root canal are already in pain from an infected or damaged tooth. The procedure actually eliminates that pain by removing the infection and restoring your oral health.
Fact: Root Canals Save Teeth
A root canal is designed to remove infected or inflamed tissue from inside the tooth while preserving the healthy outer structure. This allows you to keep your natural tooth instead of needing an extraction. After treatment, the tooth is sealed and often restored with a crown to strengthen and protect it.
Saving your tooth not only maintains your smile’s appearance but also prevents nearby teeth from shifting and helps preserve proper chewing function.
Myth: Extraction Is a Better Option
Some people believe it’s easier to pull a tooth rather than go through a root canal, but this isn’t true. Losing a tooth can lead to long-term complications, including bone loss, shifting teeth, and bite misalignment. A root canal is a far better option for maintaining your natural smile and oral health whenever possible.
With proper care, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy can last a lifetime.
Fact: Root Canals Have a High Success Rate
Root canal treatment is one of the most reliable procedures in dentistry, with success rates exceeding 95%. Dentists use advanced imaging and precision tools to ensure thorough cleaning and sealing of the tooth’s interior. Most patients return to normal eating and daily activities shortly after treatment, with lasting relief from pain and infection.
Myth: Root Canals Cause Illness
This outdated myth originated from early 20th-century studies that have long been disproven. Modern research shows that root canal therapy is a safe, effective way to remove infection — not spread it. In fact, leaving an infected tooth untreated poses a much greater risk to your health than having a root canal.
If fear or misinformation has kept you from getting the care you need, rest assured that today’s root canal procedures are comfortable, safe, and designed to protect your smile.
About the Practice
At Advanced Dental Associates of Tampa Palms, our caring team provides gentle, effective root canal therapy using the latest technology for your comfort and peace of mind. Our goal is to help patients preserve their natural teeth and enjoy long-term oral health without fear or discomfort.
Call us at (813) 972-9077 or request an appointment online.