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There are many myths and misconceptions about root canal treatment and whether patients experience root canal therapy pain in Allston MA. We want you to have accurate information, so today we’re sharing some common myths and truths.

Myth #1: Root canal therapy pain in Allston MA is inevitable.

Truth: Root canal treatment doesn’t produce pain, it alleviates it. The perception of root canal therapy pain in Allston MA began decades ago, but with modern technologies and anesthetics, root canal treatment today is no more painful than getting a filling. In fact, surveys reveal that patients who have experienced root canal treatment are six times more likely to describe it as being painless than patients who have not had root canal treatment.

Myth #2: Root canal treatment causes illness.

Truth: There is no scientific evidence linking root canal-treated teeth with disease other places in the body. A root canal is an effective and safe procedure and root canal therapy pain in Allston MA is a misconception. When a serious infection in a tooth necessitates endodontic treatment, that treatment is performed to remove bacteria from the infected root canal, avoid reinfection of the tooth and keep the natural tooth intact.

The presence of bacteria in teeth and the mouth has been an accepted fact for many years. But the presence of bacteria does not constitute “infection” and is not necessarily a threat to a person’s health. Bacteria are present in the mouth and teeth at all times, even in teeth that have never had a cavity or other trauma. Research shows that the healthy immune system takes care of bacteria in a matter of minutes.

Having a tooth pulled is a traumatic procedure and is known to cause a substantially higher occurrence of bacteria entering the bloodstream. Endodontic treatment that is confined to the root canal system creates much less trauma and a much lower occurrence and amount of bacteria entering the bloodstream.

Because there is no acceptable replacement for the natural tooth, it should be saved whenever possible. Root canal treatment – together with an appropriate restoration – is a cost-effective way to treat infected teeth because it is typically less costly than extraction and placement of an implant. In some cases, endodontic treatment lets patients keep their natural teeth for a lifetime.

Myth #3: A good alternative to root canal treatment is extraction.

Truth: Because nothing can completely replace your natural tooth, saving them, if at all possible, is always the very best option. In some cases, an artificial tooth can sometimes restrict what you can eat.

Retaining your natural teeth is important so that you can continue to enjoy the wide variety of foods that are needed to maintain the proper balance of nutrients in your diet. If your dentist recommends tooth extraction, ask whether root canal treatment is an alternative option.

Having a bridge or an implant inserted will require substantially more time in treatment and may result in further procedures to adjacent teeth and supporting tissues.

Millions of healthy treated teeth serve patients all over the world, for years and years following treatment and helping patients chew efficiently, maintain the natural appearance of their smiles and enhance their enjoyment of life.

You don’t have to be afraid of root canal therapy pain in Allston MA. If you have any concerns, contact our office today to schedule a consultation so we can walk you through the entire process.