Myth 1 – They Hurt!
It's not the procedure that hurts, it's the infection. A root canal must be performed when a tooth is decayed and infected. The tooth's pulp and nerve are removed because it's damaged, leading to a host of painful situations, such as a severe toothache, swelling and tenderness of the gums, or discoloration of a tooth. If it's not removed, bacteria in the infected area can cause an abscessed tooth, which is a very painful infection. It's critical to have the tooth treated immediately before this abscess forms to help limit the pain.

Myth 2 – OK, Then the Procedure Hurts!
Again, it's not really the procedure that is painful, so don't let that thought keep you from seeing your dentist. It's usually reported that if done properly, a root canal procedure is on the same level of discomfort as having a filling put in place. Modern medicine helps to make the process as comfortable as possible. That being said, after the procedure is complete, the tooth may be a little sensitive as it heals.

Myth 3 – Fine, Then It's Too Expensive!
Many insurance companies help to cover the root canal procedure, but overall, the cost is attributed to the severity of the infection, as well as which tooth needs to be worked on. That being said, what's even more expensive is waiting too long to get a root canal done. Preventative maintenance is always the most cost effective option, and waiting too long can lead to other, more expensive, procedures.

Root canals should not be feared, but instead, you should consider what can happen if it's not taken care of. If you need a root canal done, do not wait; you can schedule a free consultation with Dr. John, the root canal expert at Franklin Dental. Remember, scheduling sooner than later will save you time, money, and pain.