For many people, the thought of a root canal gives a sense of fear and confusion. It is one of the dental remedies that has been surrounded by myths for decades. But the truth is that there is nothing to fear from the root canal – they are safe, effective and often necessary to save the teeth. In this blog, we break the most common myths to help you understand what root canals involve and why it may be that you need to protect your smile.
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Are Root Canals Really That Painful?
One of the most common myths is that root canals are extremely painful. But the truth is that they are no more painful than fillings. The root canals are done to relieve pain, not the reason. When a tooth becomes infected or the nerve is damaged, it can cause severe discomfort. A root canal damages the duct tissue and prevents pain.
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Are Extractions Better Than Root Canals?
A tooth can look like a fast fix when pulling; if possible, it is usually better to save the tooth. Removing a tooth can cause intervals; teeth can be shifted, and how you bite can change it. A root canal helps you to maintain your smile and prevents future problems that come with missing teeth. Your dentist will always help you decide the correct course of action based on your unique needs.
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Do You Only Need a Root Canal if You’re in Pain?
Another myth is that root canals are only needed if you’re in a lot of pain. While tooth pain is a major sign that something is wrong, it’s not the only reason someone might need a root canal. Sometimes, a tooth can be badly damaged or infected without causing obvious symptoms. That’s why seeing a dentist in Langdon regularly is important—they can spot problems before they get worse. Catching these issues early can prevent the need for more complex treatments later.
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Is Root Canal Therapy a Long and Complicated Process?
Many people assume that getting a root canal will take multiple visits and a long time in the chair. But that’s usually not true. Most root canals today can be completed in just one or two appointments. During the treatment, the dentist will clean out the infected part of the tooth, seal it, and usually place a crown to protect it. Root canal therapy in Langdon has come a long way, and with the right care team, the process is smoother and faster than you might think.
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Understanding the Real Dangers of Root Canals
Much misinformation about the so-called risks of root canals online often suggests that they can give rise to other serious health problems. These claims are based on old research that has been proven false. The real danger comes from not getting a root canal when it’s needed. If an infected tooth is left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body and cause bigger health problems. Getting a root canal helps protect your overall health by stopping the spread of harmful bacteria.
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Does a Root Canal Save Your Tooth?
A root canal allows you to keep your natural tooth even after the inside is damaged. Without treatment, the tooth would likely need to be pulled, which can lead to more dental work in the future—like bridges, implants, or dentures. Keeping your real tooth helps you maintain normal chewing, speech, and appearance. With proper care, a tooth that has had a root canal can last a lifetime.
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Do Root Canals Mean the Tooth Is Dead?
Some believe that once a tooth gets a root canal, it’s “dead” and doesn’t function the same. While it’s true that the tooth no longer has a live nerve, it doesn’t mean the tooth can’t work normally. After treatment, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling and can continue to do its job just like the rest of your teeth. It just needs good oral hygiene and regular checkups—nothing out of the ordinary.
Keep Smiling with Langdon Dental
Don’t let fear or myths stop you from taking care of your teeth. At Langdon Dental, we’re here to make sure your visit is calm, clear, and helpful from start to finish. Whether you’re experiencing tooth pain, have questions about root canals, or just want a checkup, our friendly team of dentists is ready to help you feel confident about your dental care.
Your smile matters—schedule your appointment today and take a step toward healthier teeth with Langdon Dental. Let us help you keep your natural smile shining for years to come.
