FAQ'S ABOUT ROOT CANAL TREATMENT
People seem to cringe when they hear the words root canal. I know that I used to. But reading the truth about these 10 root canal myths can help you get a better sense of what having a root canal really is all about.
1. Root Canals Hurt
According to the American Association of Endodontists, the perception of root canals being painful began decades ago when root canal treatments were painful. Today, with modern technology and better anesthetics, root canal treatments are no more painful than having a filling. Knowing what to expect while having a root canal can help ease a lot of anxiety.
2. Root Canals Require a lot of Visits to the Dentist
With today’s cutting edge technology, most root canals can be performed in one or two office visits.
3. Crowns Cause Teeth to Need Root Canals
Many people believe that having a crown on a tooth means that the tooth will eventually need a root canal. Crowns do not cause the need for root canal therapy. If a crowned tooth does require a root canal, it could be that the tooth has abscessed or that decay has gotten underneath the crown and reached the pulp of the tooth.
4. Root Canals Cause Illness
There is no evidence to support that root canals cause illness. However, there is evidence to support the fact that people who have had root canals are no more at risk for developing illness than people who have never had root canals.
5. Root Canals Involve Removing the Roots of the Tooth
When the dentist or endodontist performs a root canal treatment, he or she remove the pulp from inside of the tooth. The roots of the tooth are not removed.
6. Pregnant Women Can't Have Root Canals
Pregnant women can and do have root canals. Having a root canal does require a small x-ray, but the radiation exposure is very minimal and the x-ray is aimed at the mouth, not the abdomen area. If you are pregnant and your dentist needs to give you an x-ray, he will use a lead apron to cover your belly. The anesthetics that dentists use are also safe for pregnant women. Be sure to let your dentist know beforehand if you are pregnant.
7. Even With A Root Canal, The Tooth Will Come Out Eventually
If you have your tooth properly restored, maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist for regular checkups, your natural tooth could last for the rest of your life.
8. If the Tooth Doesn't Hurt, There is no Need for a Root Canal
While a throbbing toothache usually results in the need for root canal treatment, many times a tooth can require root canal treatment when there is no pain present. Dentists and endodontists are specially trained to test a tooth to see if the pulp has been infected or damaged. If this is the case, a root canal would be necessary to save the tooth.
9. Pulling the Tooth is Better than Getting a Root Canal
Keeping your natural teeth for as long as possible is very important for proper eating and chewing functions. There are several options available for missing teeth, such as dentures, partial dentures, dental implants and fixed dental bridges, however, these alternatives can be much more expensive than saving your tooth with a root canal treatment.
10. After Having a Root Canal, My Tooth is Completely Restored
After having a root canal, it is extremely important to make a follow-up appointment with your dentist to have the tooth permanently restored. After the pulp of the tooth has been removed, the tooth can become very dry and brittle. Having a permanent restoration will help protect your tooth from fracturing.
FAQ'S ABOUT TEETH WHITENING
Teeth whitening, also known as teeth bleaching, has become extremely popular over the last several years. It’s a great way to improve your appearance, it’s reasonably priced, non-surgical and non-invasive.
As with everything else, teeth whitening isn't perfect and it isn't for everyone. Before you decide to have your teeth whitened, you should talk with your dentist. Your dentist can determine if you are a good candidate for teeth whitening. Knowing the facts can help you with your decision also:
1 Teeth whitening procedures are not covered by most dental insurance plans.
2 Tooth colored fillings, crowns, bridges and veneers will not lighten when your teeth are bleached.
3 Teeth whitening toothpastes can make your teeth appear a little lighter by removing stains, but they do not actually bleach your teeth.
4 Teeth whitening does not produce the same results on all types of teeth discoloration. Someone with yellow tinted teeth would probably have great results with bleaching, while someone with gray tinted teeth might be disappointed because gray tinted teeth don't bleach as well.
5 Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are common side effects of teeth whitening treatments.
6 If you have any cavities, they should be filled before you have your teeth whitened.
7Teeth whitening kits from the dentist produce faster results because they contain a stronger peroxide bleaching agent than whitening kits purchased over the counter.
8 Touch ups are usually needed to maintain your desired shade, depending upon habits such as smoking, drinking coffee and tea and eating certain foods which will stain your teeth.
9 People with gum disease shouldn't get their teeth whitened.
10 It's a good idea to have a dental cleaning prior to having your teeth whitened to remove surface stains.