Root canal therapy has long been one of the most misunderstood dental procedures. Just the words “root canal” can make some patients nervous, largely due to outdated information and misconceptions that have been passed down over the years. The truth is that modern root canal therapy can be a safe, effective, and virtually painless treatment to save your natural tooth and restore your oral health—especially when performed by an experienced dental professional.
At Sutra Dental Spa, cosmetic dentist Jimmy Wu, DDS is passionate about helping patients feel comfortable and informed when it comes to their dental care. If you’ve been told you need a root canal, don’t let fear or misinformation keep you from getting the treatment you need. Below, we’re busting some of the most common myths about root canal therapy so you can make confident decisions about your dental health.
Myth #1: Root Canals Are Extremely Painful
One of the biggest reasons people fear root canals is the belief that they are very painful. This myth likely comes from decades-old dental techniques and stories passed around before modern dentistry evolved.
The truth: Thanks to innovative technology and local anesthesia, root canal therapy is now no more uncomfortable than getting a routine dental filling. In fact, many patients feel immediate relief because the procedure eliminates the infection or inflammation that was causing their toothache. Dr. Wu takes extra steps to ensure patients remain comfortable throughout the entire process, using gentle techniques and a relaxing environment to help reduce anxiety. Sedation dentistry is also an option for patients who feel exceptionally stressed or anxious about getting a root canal.
Myth #2: It’s Better to Pull the Tooth Than Get a Root Canal
Some patients believe that extracting a tooth is a better or easier option than going through a root canal. While tooth extractions are sometimes necessary, saving your natural tooth is almost always the better choice.
The truth: Nothing functions quite like your natural tooth. A root canal allows you to keep your tooth and maintain normal chewing and biting function, as well as prevent surrounding teeth from shifting out of place. Extracting a tooth often leads to the need for a dental implant, bridge, or implant-supported denture to restore your smile—procedures that can be more invasive and costly in the long run. Root canal therapy is a more conservative treatment designed to protect your natural tooth structure whenever possible.
Myth #3: The Results Don’t Last Long
Another common misconception is that root canals are only a temporary fix and that the tooth will eventually need to be pulled anyway.
The truth: With proper care, teeth that have undergone root canal therapy can last a lifetime. After the infection is removed, the tooth is sealed and typically restored with a durable dental crown. This crown protects the tooth from further damage and allows it to function just like your other natural teeth. By maintaining good oral hygiene habits and scheduling regular dental checkups, your treated tooth can stay healthy for years to come.
Myth #4: Root Canals Take Multiple Long Appointments
Many people assume that root canals require several time-consuming visits to the dentist.
The truth: Most root canals can be completed in just one or two appointments, depending on the tooth’s condition. With today’s advanced dental technology, Dr. Wu can often perform the procedure quickly and efficiently while still ensuring the highest level of precision. Many patients are surprised at how simple and stress-free this process is compared to what they expected.
Myth #5: Root Canal Recovery Takes A Lot of Time
Some patients assume a root canal comes with a long recovery period and considerable downtime.
The truth: Most patients can return to their normal daily activities shortly after a root canal, making it a convenient and minimally disruptive treatment. Some mild discomfort or sensitivity in the treated tooth is common, especially when chewing or biting, but this is typically temporary and easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication. These sensations are a normal part of the healing process as the surrounding tissues adjust and recover. Most patients are pleasantly surprised at how quick and easy the recovery is, and many say they wish they hadn’t waited so long to get relief.
The Truth About Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is one of the best ways to save a severely decayed or infected tooth. By removing the infection and preserving your natural tooth structure, this treatment can not only relieve pain but also help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
At Sutra Dental Spa, Dr. Wu combines modern dental techniques with a relaxing, spa-inspired environment to help patients feel at ease during their treatments. If you’ve been told you need a root canal—or if you’re experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling—don’t let myths hold you back from getting the advanced dental care you need.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Jimmy Wu
If you’re concerned about a tooth or want to learn more about root canal therapy, Dr. Wu and the team at Sutra Dental Spa are here to help. We’ll carefully evaluate your smile, answer all your questions, and create a personalized treatment plan to help restore your dental health.
Don’t wait to relieve your pain and protect your smile—contact us today to schedule your appointment and see just how comfortable and stress-free modern root canal therapy can be.
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