What is a Root Canal? Myths vs. Facts

By Dr. Sailee Kalyankar | Over 8 years of expertise in Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics | Expertise in Microscopic Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment (RCT) has long been surrounded by fear and misconceptions. Many of my patients come to me with a sense of dread about the procedure, often because of myths that make it seem much worse than it truly is. As a dental professional specializing in endodontics, with over 8 years of expertise in Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics and a specialization in Microscopic Root Canal Treatment, I want to clear the air and share the facts about root canal treatments. By understanding when this procedure is necessary, why it's not as scary as it sounds, and how modern technology has made it more comfortable and effective, you can feel more at ease about your dental health.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure that treats infection at the center of a tooth — the root canal system. This infection can be caused by deep decay, cracks, or trauma, leading to inflammation and infection of the soft tissue inside the tooth (the pulp). If left untreated, the infection can spread and lead to pain or even tooth loss. During a root canal, the infected pulp is removed, the tooth is cleaned, and it is sealed to prevent further infection.

Myth #1: Root Canals Are Extremely Painful

Fact: A common misconception about root canals is that they are excruciatingly painful. In reality, the procedure itself is usually painless due to modern anesthetics and advanced techniques. Most patients report feeling little to no discomfort during the treatment. 

Research Insight: According to a 2020 study published in the Journal of Endodontics, 95% of patients experience minimal to no pain during the procedure, thanks to advancements in local anesthesia and sedation options. Any discomfort felt is often due to the infection in the tooth before the procedure, which subsides after treatment.

Myth #2: A Root Canal Always Requires Multiple Visits

Fact: Thanks to advancements in dental technology, many root canal treatments can now be completed in just one visit. Techniques such as rotary endodontics (high-speed electric tools) and digital imaging have made the process much more efficient. 

Recent Developments: With the introduction of 3D imaging and microsurgery, we can treat teeth more precisely and often in a single visit. In fact, according to a 2021 survey by the American Association of Endodontists, 70% of root canal treatments can now be completed in one sitting.

Myth #3: Root Canal Treatment Is Only for People with Severe Tooth Pain

Fact: Root canal treatments aren't just for people with severe tooth pain. In fact, many of the cases I see involve teeth that are infected but don’t necessarily cause significant pain. It's crucial to treat the infection early to avoid further complications, such as tooth loss. 

Quote: Dr. Paul D. Koshy, a leading endodontist, once said, "Root canals are not the enemy; they are a savior for your tooth, preventing the need for extraction." 

Statistics: The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that approximately 15 million root canals are performed annually in the U.S., and many of those patients experience no pain but have deep decay or infection that needs treatment.

Myth #4: Root Canal Treatment Causes More Harm Than Good

Fact: On the contrary, root canal treatment is designed to preserve the natural tooth and maintain overall dental health. When done properly, root canal-treated teeth can last for many years, often for a lifetime. Without this treatment, the infection may spread and lead to more severe oral health issues. 

Statistical Insight: A 2019 study published in The Journal of Endodontics found that 98% of root canal-treated teeth remained functional for at least 8 years when properly cared for.

Myth #5: After a Root Canal, the Tooth Is Weak and Prone to Breaking

Fact: While root canal-treated teeth may lose some strength, they can still serve you well for many years with proper restoration. After a root canal, the tooth is usually restored with a crown to protect it and restore its function. 

Technology and Developments: Today, we use ceramic crowns and fiber post restorations to give root canal-treated teeth additional strength and durability. A study published in 2020 in the International Journal of Prosthodontics found that root canal-treated teeth restored with ceramic crowns had a 92% success rate over 10 years.

The Latest Technology in Root Canal Treatment

Root canal procedures have significantly improved due to technological advancements. Here are some of the innovations that make treatment faster, safer, and more comfortable:

Technology	Benefits
Digital Radiography	Uses less radiation while providing high-quality images for better diagnosis and treatment planning.
Rotary Endodontics	Efficiently cleans and shapes the root canal with precision, reducing treatment time and increasing patient comfort.
Laser Technology (LART)	Sterilizes the root canal space, reduces infection risk, and promotes faster healing.
3D Imaging (CBCT)	Provides a 3D view of the tooth and surrounding tissues, improving the assessment of infection and treatment planning.

Why Root Canal Treatment Is Essential

●     Prevents Tooth Loss: Root canal treatment can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted, preserving your natural smile.

●     Improves Functionality: After treatment, a root canal-treated tooth can function just like any other, allowing you to chew and speak comfortably.

●     Relieves Pain: While there may be some discomfort before the procedure, root canal treatment typically provides relief from the intense pain caused by the infection in the tooth.

If you have any questions about root canals or would like to schedule a consultation, feel free to reach out to me at Symphony Dental Care, a trusted dental clinic in Khar/Bandra. Remember, early intervention and understanding the facts can make all the difference when it comes to your dental health.