Root canals are the most feared dental treatment. The American Association of Endodontists reported that most patient’s fears of root canals are based on experiences shared by their friends and family. Popular culture references commonly associate root canals with bad experiences. Even President Obama, in his first State of the Union address, reinforced the misconception by expressing his dislike of root canals.
Surprising Pain Survey Results
The American Association of Endodontists reported that a recent survey showed patients undergoing root canal therapy are six times more likely to have a “painless” experience than patients who have not had root canal treatment. Undergoing a root canal actually relieves the pain instead of causing more pain. AAE has put out a list of common myths regarding root canals that can be read here.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy consists in removing the tooth’s inner inflamed or infected tissue, cleaning, and filling the root canal space to seal it. Then the tooth is restored with a filling alone or with a crown. Therefore, a restored tooth is protected and functions like any other tooth (illustrations and detailed information in French, Japanese, Portuguese or Spanish at http://www.aae.org/patients/treatments-and-procedures/root-canals/root-canals.aspx)
Who Preforms Root Canals?
15.1 million root canal treatments are performed annually according to the American Dental Association Survey of Dental Services Rendered published in 2007. This survey shows that general dentists performed 68% of root canals, endodontists preformed 26%, and other dental specialists performed the remainder of root canals.
General dentists and endodontists save millions of natural teeth by performing root canal treatment and contribute to the overall good oral health of patients. So, if the time comes and a root canal is needed, your dental experience will most likely be positive.