Rumors start about some pretty wild things. In fact, you’ve probably heard a few crazy ones when you were a kid (remember the popping candy and soda myth?). Unfortunately, however, thanks to the internet, they can now spread even faster and cause far more damage than those scary stories your friends told you in the lunchroom. Thus is the case with a recent rumor that root canals cause cancer. It is believed that the origins of this urban legend started with a 2018 documentary called “Root Cause,” where the filmmaker implies a connection between the procedure and breast cancer. Fortunately, there is no scientific evidence to back this claim, however unfortunately, the rumor has not only spread, but it also still persists to this day.
If you need a root canal and are concerned about potential side effects, here’s why there’s no need to be afraid.
What is a Root Canal?
Root canals are procedures used to heal an infected tooth. Your dentist opens the tooth and clears out the infected pulp, replacing it with synthetic pulp that keeps the tooth alive and the infection at bay. The tooth is then sealed back up with a filling or a crown, and your tooth should feel much better and no longer be in danger of needing extraction.
Why Are Root Canals Important?
Unlike other types of infections in the body, tooth infections don’t heal on their own. If you have one, it will likely get worse. In fact, it can easily spread to other teeth, requiring multiple root canals or extractions. Thus, it is important to treat it as soon as possible.
While rare, tooth infections can also be fatal, so ignoring one in hopes that it will simply go away is a very dangerous idea.
What Are the Risks of a Root Canal?
Root canals are relatively low risk procedures. There is always a chance that your dentist will discover after attempting to perform one that your tooth cannot be saved. In some cases, your root canal can still fail weeks or even months down the road, but for the most part, they are typically very safe and reliable. You may have also heard they are very painful, but the truth is it’s a pain-relieving procedure, and most people actually feel relief after having one, not discomfort.
If your dentist recommends a root canal, ultimately the choice is yours, however, rest assured that these procedures are completely safe, very common, and very beneficial. If you have any questions or concerns about it or its after-effects, speak to your dentist for more information.
About Our Practice
At Lux Smiles, we don’t just want you to look good, we want you to feel good too. That’s why we offer a wide range of dental services, from general dentistry to cosmetic procedures and emergency treatments like root canals.
If you are suffering from a tooth infection and need to schedule a root canal, please visit our website or call us today at 212-777-7126.