Endodontic therapy: Common misperceptions and myths about root canal treatment.

The general population as a whole seems to harbor a number of false impressions about root canal treatment. These range from a misperception about why it is performed, a misunderstanding of what occurs during treatment or what is it like to have endodontic therapy, as well as unfounded conceptions related to the consequences of having, or not having, a tooth "root canalled."

Collectively these misperceptions seem to have taken on a life of their own. To the point that they currently constitute an active body of myths that, while widely subscribed to, don't accurately characterize root canal treatment. And because of this, they only function as a disservice to society as a whole.

We've picked out a number of these myths and have tried to provide an explanation for each of them that enlightens the reader about how ill conceived and incorrect they are. The problem with the persistence of these myths is that buying into them may cause a person to avoid or choose against having root canal treatment. A decision that very will may not be in their best interest.

Common myths and misconceptions about root canal treatment:

Myth: Teeth that have had root canal treatment are eventually lost anyway. Myth: If a tooth doesn't hurt, it doesn't need root canal treatment. Myth: Pulling a tooth is a better option than having root canal treatment. Myth: Dental crowns cause teeth to need root canal treatment. Myth: Having root canal treatment is painful. Myth: Pregnant women cannot have root canal treatment. Myth: Root canal treatment removes a tooth's roots. Myth: After root canal treatment, a tooth has been fully restored. Myth: Root canal treatment requires a lot of appointments.