Welcome to Memorial Square Dental’s website blog. Below are blog articles and stories that may interest you. Content can also be filtered by subject by clicking on the categories to the left. If you have any questions about any of the NE Calgary Dental Services at Memorial Dental, then please call us at (403) 273-7666.
Many patients find visiting the dentist for a root canal to be a stressful time. However, much of this anxiety is due to a several misconceptions about the procedure that result in unnecessary stress.
The truth is, having a root canal performed at Memorial Square Dental in NE Calgary isn’t as painful, lengthy, or expensive as most would imagine. Here we debunk six common myths surrounding the root canal procedure so you can arrive at your appointment relaxed and ready.
Myth 1: It’s a painful experience
While root canals may have been an aching procedure in the past, today they are no more painful than having the average filling placed. Modern dentistry methods, advances in pain management, and highly skilled dentists allow for routine root canals to be relatively pain-free.
In fact, most root canals are performed to reduce pain, so patients often find relief after the procedure is complete. In some cases, when a severe infection is present, root canals may cause increased discomfort, but modern anaesthesia and the appropriate use of pre-treatment medications such as antibiotics and painkillers reduces most of this pain.
Myth 2: The procedure will break the bank
As with any dental procedure, there is no denying the necessary costs. However, a root canal is much more cost-effective than its only alternative: having the tooth extracted and later replaced with an implant, bridge, or denture.
Myth 3: It takes a long time to complete
Another common misconception about root canals is that the procedure is lengthy, or involves several visits in order to complete. This myth is likely brought about as root canals are lengthier than most dental treatments, but when there are no complications, they are often accomplished in one visit, in under two hours.
Myth 4: Root canals don’t work anyways!
If performed correctly, a root canal should be completely successful. The treated tooth can last a lifetime once a dental crown is in place, and ensuring proper care, oral hygiene, and routine checkups take place. The only thing to keep in mind is that the longer you wait, the lower the chance of success – if you need a root canal, get it done as soon as possible
Myth 5: The process damages the tooth
The tooth is already damaged, this is why the root canal is needed – the purpose of a root canal is to save the tooth, not cause further damage. During the procedure, the infected canals are cleansed, filled, and sealed in order to block bacteria from entering the tooth.
Myth 6: All dentists have the same level of experience
While root canals have become a routine process, they are best performed by a dentist with experience in the procedure. At Memorial Square Dental Clinic, you will be treated by a dentist with experience providing root canal treatments, so you receive the best available care in NE Calgary.
To book a consultation appointment, schedule a time at your convenience online or by telephone at 403-273-7666. Please contact us with any other questions you may have about the root canal procedure, as well!