We’ve seen and heard it all. We tell a patient that they could benefit from a root canal, and their responses run the gamut. We see a wince in their facial expressions, and then the questions come pouring out. Will it hurt? Are there any other options? Can a root canal treatment make me sick? Can’t you just pull out the tooth?

But here’s the thing. Root canal treatments don’t have to be scary. And most of what you have heard about root canal treatments is nothing more than myths and misinformation. In this article, the team at Staley Dental will lay out the facts so that you can be comfortable and prepared when the time for your root canal procedure rolls around.

What is a root canal treatment?

Root canal treatments have a bad reputation, but the truth is, they are one of the most reliable ways to save a tooth. Every year, around 15 million root canal treatments are performed, helping patients keep their natural smiles intact. And they work—really well. A 2023 study published in Clinical Oral Investigations found that after a decade, 97% of treated teeth were still holding strong, and even after 37 years, 68% had stood the test of time.

So, what exactly happens during a root canal treatment? It’s a procedure designed to treat a tooth with damage or infection deep inside. Beneath the outer layers of enamel and dentin is the pulp—soft tissue filled with nerves and blood vessels. If bacteria reach this area due to decay, a crack, or injury, it can lead to pain and infection. A root canal treatment cleans out infected pulp, sanitizes the tooth’s interior, and seals it to stop future issues—allowing you to keep your natural tooth.

With that, let’s bust some of the most common root canal treatment myths.

Root Canal Treatments are Painful

The idea that root canal treatments are painful is one of the biggest misconceptions out there. In reality, a root canal is designed to relieve tooth pain—not cause it. If you’ve ever had a deep toothache that won’t go away, chances are the pulp inside your tooth is infected or inflamed. That’s where a root canal treatment comes in. By removing the damaged tissue and sealing the tooth, the procedure actually stops the pain at its source. This means you get relief—fast.

According to the American Association of Endodontists, patients who have a root canal are six times more likely to call it painless than those who have a tooth removed. Thanks to modern techniques and advanced numbing agents, getting a root canal treatment feels no different from having a routine filling. So, if you’re dreading the procedure, rest assured—it’s a comfortable solution to a painful problem.

Root Canal Treatments Cause Illness

A century ago, a theory took root that still lingers today. In the 1920s, Dr. Weston Price, a dentist, suggested that local infections, including those in teeth, could lead to chronic diseases. At the time, medical research hadn’t yet identified the true causes of many conditions, so dentists often extracted broken or infected teeth hoping to preventing illness. But by the 1930s, better-designed studies disproved Price’s claims, and endodontic treatment became a trusted way to save teeth.

Despite what you might read online, no scientific evidence links root canal treatment to illness. The American Association of Endodontists confirms that root canal treatments don’t increase the risk of developing health conditions, including cancer. If your dentist near Boise, Idaho, recommends a root canal treatment, you can feel confident knowing it’s a safe, well-established procedure that eliminates infection while keeping your natural tooth intact.

Root canal treatments are unnecessary, just pull the tooth.

Some people assume that if a tooth is causing problems, it’s better to just pull it. But whenever possible, saving your natural tooth is the best choice for both function and appearance. Your teeth work together to help you chew, speak, and maintain jawbone health. Removing a tooth creates a gap that can lead to shifting, bite problems, and even bone loss over time.

When comparing a root canal treatment vs. extraction, the benefits of preserving your natural teeth are pretty apparent. Root canal therapy is typically more comfortable, requires fewer visits, and comes with a lower overall cost when you factor in the need for a replacement tooth. An extraction may seem like a quick fix, but it often leads to additional treatments like bridges or implants to restore function. When your dentist recommends a root canal, it’s because keeping your tooth is the best long-term solution for your smile.

Experiencing lingering tooth pain? Talk to Staley Dental to see if you can benefit from a root canal treatment.

If you are experiencing tooth pain that won’t go away, it’s time to see your dentist near Boise, Idaho. Why suffer when there are options to relieve your pain? During your visit, we’ll assess the root cause of your toothache and present to you the best course of action. And, if a root canal treatment can indeed help you feel better, rest assured it is a safe and painless procedure. Contact us today.