The Truth Behind Root Canals Morgantown, WV
Root canal treatment can preserve an infected tooth. Left untreated, tooth infections can spread to other parts of the body. Root canal treatment is a standard procedure that saves millions of teeth each year.
Root canals are available at Gilkerson Family Dentistry in Morgantown and the surrounding area. Saving your tooth can be easier than you think. Call us today at (681) 253-3421 to schedule an appointment and learn more.
When a Root Canal Is Needed
Root canals are a fairly straightforward procedure that repair and protect badly decayed or infected teeth. The pulp of the tooth, which contains the nerves and blood vessels, can become irritated and infected for many reasons. These include deep decay, repeated dental procedures, large fillings, a chip or crack, or facial trauma.
Some of the symptoms that indicate a need for a root canal include:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and liquids
- Severe discomfort while chewing or biting
- Small, pimple-like irritations on the gums
- Swollen or tender gums
Patients who are experiencing any of these symptoms will want to make an appointment to see our dentist. The more time goes by, the more likely the tissue surrounding the tooth will get infected — increasing the chances that the tooth may have to get extracted. However, there is no need to worry. Getting a root canal is no worse than getting a filling and is effective.
“Root canals are a fairly straightforward procedure that repair and protect badly decayed or infected teeth.”
Root Canals & Safety
Root canal treatments save millions of teeth each year. The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) estimates that over 15 million of these procedures are performed in the United States every year. On average, this comes out to over 41,000 root canal treatments per day.
This common procedure is both safe and effective, leading to predictable results. In fact, it is usually more dangerous to leave a tooth untreated than it is to undergo a root canal treatment. Root canal treatments are only necessary once bacteria have begun to multiply inside the tooth, causing an infection or abscess. This may lead to bone loss around the tip of the tooth's root; drainage problems extending from the root; and swelling in other areas of the face, head, or neck. Root canal treatments can stop these effects.
“The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) estimates that over 15 million of these procedures are performed in the United States every year.”
Common Myths About Root Canals
Unfortunately, there are many common myths about root canals that stop patients from seeing the endodontist. The main three misconceptions are:
- It is painful to get a root canal.
- Getting a root canal will cause illness.
- Tooth extraction is better than root canal treatment.
While root canal treatment may have been painful in the past, modern technology and anesthetics have made the experience no more discomforting than getting a cavity filled. Root canal treatments also reverse toothaches by removing the source of infection or inflammation. Plus, endodontists are experts in pain management.
Furthermore, the claim that links root canal treatment to illness is based on an outdated and poorly designed research study that has long since been debunked. While some may claim that root canal treatment may make patients more likely to become ill or contract certain diseases in the future, there is no valid, scientific evidence supporting this theory.
Finally, it is always best to save a natural tooth whenever possible. In most cases, this is safer, less painful, and more economical than a tooth extraction. Preserving a natural tooth lessens the risk of further infections, and, as mentioned, root canal treatments are typically not as painful as people believe. Many people also mistakenly believe that tooth extraction is the cheaper option. However, this is often untrue when considering the whole picture.
“While root canal treatment may have been painful in the past, modern technology and anesthetics have made the experience no more discomforting than getting a cavity filled.”
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Rare Complications
While rare, some complications may present themselves after a root canal procedure. If the pain goes away but then returns, patients will want to schedule an exam. A new infection can take hold if a canal got missed in the roots, a crack in the tooth root went undetected, or sealing material broke down over time. Other complications include teeth breaking if a crown was not placed in a timely fashion, root fracture from decay, or numbness from the material used to fill the root canal leaking into other areas of the tooth.
Sometimes, another root canal can fix the problem or need a root-end resection procedure. Always remember to follow all of the post-procedure instructions provided by our dentist to heal quickly. Patients who start experiencing any complications should call our office to schedule an appointment.
“While they are rare, there can be some complications after a root canal procedure.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How common are root canals?
Q. When is a root canal needed?
Q. Are there rare complications associated with root canals?
Q. What are the pros and cons of root canals?
People Also Ask
Q. Is increased sensitivity to temperature a sign that endodontic surgery is necessary?
Q. What is the difference between endodontists and dentists?
Q. What are some alternatives to a root canal?
Q. How can you save a tooth with a root canal?
Q. What are the keys to understanding root scaling and planing?
The Pros and Cons
Consider a few root canal pros and cons when weighing the options. Some of the benefits include:
- Preserving the natural tooth, which will function better than any dental implant
- Preventing the spread of infection
- Relief from tooth discomfort
- Being a viable alternative to tooth extraction
In the end, the most important reason to get a root canal is that it will save the natural tooth. This will help with chewing, normal biting force, appearance, and protecting the rest of the teeth from excessive wear and tear. However, there is no guarantee that the procedure will be 100% effective. Following the procedure, the patient will need to be careful with the tooth since it will become brittle and be more susceptible to cracks. In some cases, a failed procedure can cause an infection to spread.
As with any dental procedure, there are risks to having a root canal. No matter the case, our dentist and team will take every precaution necessary for the patient's safety. Our dentist will help each patient weigh these pros and cons to assist them in making the right decision.
“Consider a few root canal pros and cons when weighing the options.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. When would I need a root canal?
A. Root canals can be necessary when an infection in your tooth reaches the tooth's nerves and causes extensive decay. A bad crack or broken tooth can also require a root canal. Signs you may need a root canal include extreme tooth discomfort while chewing and sensitivity to hot and cold foods and liquids.
Q. Are root canals painful?
A. Several myths surround root canals, and pain is one of them. A root canal is no more painful than having a cavity filled. Our dentist will help you manage any pain during and after the procedure.
Q. Can I have another procedure other than a root canal?
A. When it comes to saving your natural tooth from infection or decay, a root canal is the preferred option. The only other viable alternative is tooth extraction. Dentists recommend attempting to save your natural tooth before choosing extraction.
Q. What can I do to avoid root canals in the future?
A. To avoid root canals in the future, practice good oral hygiene along with scheduling regular dental checkups and cleanings. Also, limit sugary foods to help protect your teeth from decay. If you play contact sports, wear a custom-made mouthguard to avoid the risk of teeth injury.
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Endodontic Terminology
Learn More Today
Root canal treatments can make the difference between preserving or losing your teeth. We at Gilkerson Family Dentistry can help. Call us today at 681-253-3421 to schedule an appointment and learn more.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
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