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Myths about root canal
Root canal treatment has had more than its share of myths
Clear up common myths and understand what to expect before, during and after the procedure.
Myths and facts
Three common myths, and the facts
Much of what you may read about root canal treatment is out of date. Here are the facts behind three common myths.
Myth: “Root canal treatment is painful”
Decades ago, perhaps. With modern technology and anaesthetics, it should feel no worse than having a cavity filled. If you are already in pain, treatment removes the damaged tissue causing it.
Myth: “Root canal treatment causes illness”
There is no valid scientific evidence linking root canal treatment to disease elsewhere in the body. The claim rests on long-debunked, poorly designed research from nearly a century ago.
Myth: “It is better to pull the tooth”
Saving your natural tooth, if possible, is the best option. Nothing artificial fully replaces a natural tooth, and replacing an extracted one can mean more time, cost and procedures.
Your comfort
Worried about root canal treatment?
Fear of root canal treatment is common, often because you do not know what it will feel like, or you are already in pain.
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Local anaesthetic is routinely used
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Treatment targets the inflamed or infected tissue behind your symptoms
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Some tenderness can occur afterwards while the tissues settle
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Anxious? Tell us before your visit so we can discuss pain management or sedation
Every patient and every tooth is different, so we do not promise treatment or recovery will be completely pain-free.
Talk to us about your concerns →Afterwards
What happens after treatment?
You will get aftercare instructions for your procedure. Call us if swelling or discomfort does not settle as expected.
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The tooth still needs a permanent filling, crown or other restoration
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The restoration protects the remaining tooth and seals it
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Referred patients return to their regular dentist for ongoing care
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Saving the tooth helps keep your bite, chewing and the tooth's position
Root canal treatment questions
Questions patients often ask
Short answers to what patients ask most about root canal treatment. Call us if your question is not here.
Does root canal treatment hurt?
Local anaesthetic is routinely used during treatment. Some tenderness may occur afterwards while the tissues around the tooth recover, and individual experiences vary.
How long does root canal treatment take?
Treatment is commonly completed over one or two appointments. The exact sequence depends on the tooth and how complex the case is.
Will I need a crown afterwards?
Some root canal-treated teeth need a crown, while others are restored differently. Your endodontist and general dentist can advise what is appropriate for your tooth.
How can I know if root canal treatment is right for me?
A specialist assessment allows your endodontist to evaluate your symptoms, examine your tooth and explain the options available to you.
Tooth pain or infection? Get a specialist assessment
Persistent pain, swelling, deep decay or a cracked tooth may mean a problem with the pulp. An assessment finds the source and whether root canal treatment can help preserve your natural tooth.
