Commentary Article - (2023) Volume 7, Issue 4
Received: 01-Aug-2023, Manuscript No. ipom-23-18049; Editor assigned: 03-Aug-2023, Pre QC No. ipom-23-18049 (PQ); Reviewed: 17-Aug-2023, QC No. ipom-23-18049; Revised: 22-Aug-2023, Manuscript No. ipom-23-18049 (R); Published: 29-Aug-2023, DOI: 10.36648/ipom.7.4.35
When it comes to dental procedures, few invoke as much dread as the mention of a root canal. The mere utterance of those words seems to send shivers down the spines of many. However, as someone who has been through a root canal, I can’t help but feel that the reputation of this procedure is unfairly negative. Root canal treatment, often perceived as a necessary evil, has been marred by myths and misconceptions that contribute to its bad rap. Let’s set the record straight and explore why root canals might not be as terrifying as they are often made out to be. Firstly, the pain associated with root canals is exaggerated. Thanks to advancements in anesthesia and technology, the discomfort experienced during a root canal is comparable to getting a regular filling. Dentists ensure that patients are adequately numbed before the procedure, making pain a minimal concern. One prevailing myth is that root canals lead to illness. Some claim that the treatment causes systemic diseases, but there is no credible scientific evidence supporting this. In fact, root canals are performed to eliminate infection and prevent the spread of bacteria, which can have positive effects on one’s overall health. Another misconception is that removing a tooth is a better alternative. The truth is, saving a natural tooth through a root canal is often the preferred option. Losing a tooth can have long-term consequences, including shifting of adjacent teeth and difficulty in chewing. Root canal treatment allows for the preservation of the natural dentition, maintaining both function and aesthetics. Furthermore, the idea that root canals take an eternity to complete is far from accurate. Modern dental practices have streamlined the process, making it quicker and more efficient. In most cases, a root canal can be completed in a single appointment, sparing patients the agony of prolonged dental visits. Cost is another factor that often raises eyebrows when it comes to root canals. While it’s true that the procedure may seem expensive, it is essential to consider the long-term benefits. Saving a tooth through a root canal is a wise investment in oral health, preventing the need for more extensive and costly procedures such as dental implants or bridges. In my opinion, the negative perception surrounding root canal treatment is largely fueled by fear of the unknown. People tend to dread what they don’t understand, and the complexities of dental procedures can be intimidating. However, a well-informed approach, coupled with open communication with your dentist, can alleviate many anxieties associated with root canals. It’s crucial to recognize that dentistry has come a long way, and the horror stories of the past may no longer be relevant. Root canal treatment, when performed by a skilled and experienced dentist, is a routine and relatively painless procedure that aims to save your natural tooth. In conclusion, it’s time to debunk the myths surrounding root canal treatment. The fear and apprehension associated with this procedure are often based on outdated information and exaggerations. Embracing the facts and understanding the benefits of root canals can help individuals make informed decisions about their dental health, ultimately leading to a brighter and healthier smile.
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The author’s declared that they have no conflict of interest.
Citation: Jansson L (2023) Rethinking Root Canal Treatment: Debunking the Myths. J Ora Med. 7:35.
Copyright: © 2023 Jansson L. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.