The words “root canal” can make many people nervous. For years, this treatment has had a bad reputation. People imagine severe pain, long appointments, and complicated procedures. Some even believe it can make you sick.
The truth is very different.
Root canal treatment is a routine dental procedure that is done to save a tooth that is badly infected or damaged. It is meant to remove pain, not cause it. With modern equipment and proper anesthesia, it is usually smooth and comfortable.
Let’s clear up some of the most common myths about root canal treatment.
Myth 1: Root Canal Treatment Is Extremely Painful
Fact: Root canals are done to relieve pain, not cause it.
This is the biggest fear people have.
When someone needs a root canal, it is usually because the tooth is already infected. That infection is what causes the pain. The purpose of the treatment is to remove that infection and stop the pain.
With modern numbing techniques, most patients say the procedure feels similar to getting a normal filling. You may feel some mild soreness afterward, but it is manageable and temporary.
Dentistry has changed a lot over the years. Today, the focus is on patient comfort. The scary stories you may have heard are usually from decades ago.
Myth 2: It’s Better to Pull the Tooth Than Get a Root Canal
Fact: Saving your natural tooth is almost always the better option.
Some people think removing the tooth is faster and easier. But removing a tooth can create new problems.
When a tooth is pulled:
- Nearby teeth may slowly shift.
- Chewing can become uneven.
- The jawbone in that area may weaken over time.
- You may need a replacement like a bridge or implant, which can cost more.
A root canal allows you to keep your natural tooth. After the infection is removed, the tooth is sealed and usually protected with a crown. With proper care, it can last for many years, even a lifetime.
Your natural tooth is always stronger and better suited for your mouth than any artificial replacement.
Myth 3: Root Canals Cause Illness in the Body
Fact: There is no scientific proof that root canals cause other diseases.
This myth started many years ago from outdated research. It suggested that bacteria from treated teeth could spread and cause other illnesses.
Modern science has clearly shown that this belief is not true.
Root canal treatment actually removes harmful bacteria from the infected tooth. It helps stop infection from spreading. Dentists follow strict cleaning and sterilization methods to make sure the procedure is safe.
There is no reliable evidence linking root canals to serious diseases like cancer or heart problems.
If anything, untreated dental infections are more dangerous than properly treated teeth.
Myth 4: Root Canals Take Many Long and Painful Visits
Fact: Most root canals are completed in one or two visits.
In the past, root canal treatment could take several appointments. Today, things are much more efficient.
With modern tools and improved techniques, most treatments are finished in just one or two sessions. The appointments are planned carefully so that you spend less time in the chair.
The focus is on doing the job properly while keeping you comfortable.
It is no longer the long, exhausting process people imagine.
Myth 5: If the Tooth Doesn’t Hurt, You Don’t Need a Root Canal
Fact: A tooth can be infected even if it does not hurt.
Pain is not always present.
Sometimes the nerve inside the tooth can die slowly, and you may not feel much discomfort. However, the infection can still be there. Dentists often discover this during an X-ray.
If left untreated, the infection can grow and lead to:
- Swelling
- Abscess
- Severe pain later
- Spread of infection to nearby areas
That is why regular dental check-ups are important. Early treatment is easier, simpler, and prevents bigger problems.
A Few More Misunderstandings
Some people believe that a root canal removes the entire tooth. That is not true. The dentist only removes the infected soft tissue inside the tooth. The outer structure remains in place.
Another common thought is that the treated tooth will eventually need to be removed anyway. In reality, if the tooth is properly restored and you maintain good oral hygiene, it can last for many years, even for life.
Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits make a big difference.
The Bottom Line
Root canal treatment is not something to fear. It is a safe and effective way to save a tooth that would otherwise be lost.
It:
- Relieves pain
- Removes infection
- Preserves your natural tooth
- Prevents bigger dental problems
The idea that root canals are extremely painful or harmful is based on old stories, not modern dentistry.
If your dentist recommends a root canal, it is usually because they believe your tooth can still be saved. And saving your natural tooth is always worth considering.
When you understand the facts, the fear becomes much smaller.
If you ever feel unsure, talk openly at Smriti Raj Dentistry, a trusted speciality care for the smiles that matter most. Ask questions. Get clarity. The more you know, the more confident you will feel about taking care of your dental health.
