Many people are anxious or afraid at the thought of undergoing root canal treatment. Much of this fear comes from the (mistaken) belief that the procedure will be especially painful. However, there is also a myth floating around that root canals could potentially lead to cancer. Is there any truth to this idea? Put your root canal fears behind you by discovering the facts.
What Exactly Happens During a Root Canal Treatment?
The goal of a root canal treatment is to remove the affected tooth’s infected or damaged pulp. Step one is to apply a local anesthetic so that you don’t experience any discomfort during the process. Then, once an opening has been made in the tooth, the pulp can be taken out. The now-empty space inside the tooth will be filled before the dental structure is resealed. You will probably need a crown to keep your tooth safe afterward.
So, Can Root Canal Treatment Cause Cancer?
The short, simple answer is no; there is absolutely no evidence that root canals can cause cancer. The myth originates from a study performed in the early 1900s that looked into the idea of dental work contributing to conditions elsewhere in the body. The research was not well-designed, and it has long been debunked largely thanks to an improved understanding of what actually causes cancer and other diseases.
There do remain some individuals who subscribe to the idea of a relationship between cancer and root canal treatments. However, there are no modern studies supporting this assertion. Simply put, if you’re told that a root canal is required to restore and protect your oral health, there is no reason to worry that it might lead to cancer.
What Other Misconceptions About Root Canal Treatment Are There?
Sadly, the supposed connection to cancer is not the only myth about root canal treatment that people believe. For example, the media often depicts the procedure as causing a lot of pain. The fact of the matter is that undergoing a root canal is no more uncomfortable than receiving a filling thanks to modern dental pain management techniques.
Furthermore, some patients think having their teeth removed altogether is preferable to receiving a root canal. However, a missing tooth comes with its own share of oral health problems, and filling in the empty space with a bridge, partial denture, or dental implant costs money. Saving the tooth with a root canal treatment is typically the better option for your smile and your wallet.
It’s important to have all the facts so that you can make the decisions that are truly best for your grin. If you have any concerns regarding root canal treatment, let your dentist know so that they can put your worries to rest.
About the Author
Dr. Kenneth Endres has close to four decades of dental experience. During his one-year General Practice Residency at Keesler AFB in Biloxi, MS, he gained experience in endodontics and other specialties of dentistry. At his Granby practice, Salmon Brook Dental, he can help his patients find relief from tooth pain by performing root canal treatment. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Endres, visit his website or call (860) 653-4551.