When you hear the words “root canal,” do you picture pain and stress? If so, you’re not alone. Root canals have earned an unfair reputation over the years, and many people delay treatment out of fear or misinformation. At MVP Dental in Farmington, UT, we believe knowledge is the best tool for overcoming dental anxiety.
In this article, we’ll uncover and debunk 6 of the most common root canal myths, and explain how modern techniques make this essential procedure safe, effective, and comfortable.
Myth #1: Root Canals Are Extremely Painful
The Truth:
This is the most persistent myth—and it’s completely outdated. With today’s advanced dental techniques and local anesthesia, a root canal is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Most patients at MVP Dental report little to no pain during or after the procedure.
Why the Myth Exists:
In the past, root canals were associated with pain because they were performed without the effective tools and anesthetics available today.
MVP Dental Advantage:
Our team uses cutting-edge technology and gentle techniques to ensure every root canal is efficient and as pain-free as possible.
Myth #2: It’s Better to Pull the Tooth Than Get a Root Canal
The Truth:
Saving your natural tooth is almost always the best option. A root canal allows you to keep your original tooth structure, which helps maintain jawbone strength and bite alignment.
Tooth Loss Risks:
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Shifting teeth
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Bone loss
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Higher long-term costs for replacements (like bridges or implants)
MVP Dental’s Goal:
We strive to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible, and root canals are a vital part of that mission.
Myth #3: Root Canals Cause Illness
The Truth:
This myth is based on century-old research that has since been debunked by modern science. There is no evidence that root canals cause disease or systemic illness.
Fact Check:
According to the American Association of Endodontists, root canal treatments are safe, effective, and used to eliminate harmful bacteria, not spread it.
MVP Dental’s Protocol:
We follow strict sterilization and safety procedures to ensure your health is protected before, during, and after treatment.
Myth #4: If My Tooth Doesn’t Hurt, I Don’t Need a Root Canal
The Truth:
In many cases, teeth that need a root canal don’t cause pain. Infected or dead pulp tissue might not trigger discomfort but can still cause long-term damage if left untreated.
Other Signs to Watch For:
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Swelling or tenderness in the gums
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Tooth discoloration
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Sensitivity to hot or cold
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A persistent bad taste or smell
The MVP Dental Difference:
Our diagnostic tools, like digital imaging and CBCT scanning, allow us to detect hidden issues and treat problems early, even if you’re not in pain.
Myth #5: Root Canals Take Several Visits to Complete
The Truth:
Thanks to modern dental advancements, most root canals can be completed in just one or two visits.
What Affects Treatment Time:
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Tooth location and complexity
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Severity of infection
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Restoration needs (such as crowns)
Efficiency at MVP Dental:
Our goal is to provide high-quality care with minimal disruption to your schedule. We’ll let you know what to expect after a thorough examination.
Myth #6: The Benefits of Root Canals Don’t Last
The Truth:
When done properly and followed with good oral care, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime.
Post-Treatment Care Includes:
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Good daily hygiene (brushing and flossing)
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Regular checkups and cleanings
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A crown or other restoration if recommended
Long-Term Support from MVP Dental:
We not only perform precise root canals—we help you maintain your results with ongoing care and education.
What to Expect During a Root Canal at MVP Dental
Here’s a quick overview of the process:
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Evaluation & Diagnosis: We use digital imaging to determine the extent of the infection.
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Numbing: Local anesthesia is administered for a pain-free experience.
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Cleaning & Sealing: We remove the infected pulp, clean the canal, and seal the tooth.
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Restoration: In many cases, a crown is placed to protect the tooth and restore function.
With expert care and modern technology, the entire process is smooth, safe, and effective.
Don’t Let Myths Stop You From Saving Your Smile
Avoiding a necessary root canal can lead to more serious problems down the road—including tooth loss and more invasive treatments. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have been told you might need a root canal, don’t wait.
At MVP Dental in Farmington, UT, we provide comfortable, compassionate care to help you get back to smiling pain-free.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Contact us today to schedule your consultation. Let’s address the problem before it gets worse—and do it the right way.