Become a Gum Expert for Better Health

Become a Gum Expert for Better Health

About Me

Become a Gum Expert for Better Health

When you think about gum, you might think of blowing bubbles, or freshening your breath. However, the gums you need to think of first are the pink ones in your mouth supporting your teeth. I didn't know how important healthy gums were until I came down with a case of gingivitis in my early 20's. I had neglected my brushing and flossing habits for nearly a decade, so my last few years of college were marred by pain in my mouth and bleeding gums. It took me over a year of hard work to reverse the damage I caused and restore my mouth to peak health. My recovery included an uncomfortable and lengthy procedure known as root planing, and that experience convinced me to help others avoid the entire issue of gum disease. This is why I've created my own website to help everyone protect their gums the easy way.

 

3 Common Misconceptions About Root Canals

6 March 2015
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

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If your dentist has told you you that you might need a root canal, you may worry. Many people are afraid of getting root canals because of all the misconceptions and myths out there about the procedure. Here are some common misconceptions about root canals, so that you have more accurate information and a better idea of what is in store for you if you need to have the procedure done.

Root Canals are Unbearably Painful

There is a persistent rumor that root canals cause tremendous pain that takes a long time to recover from. In fact, many root canals are done to remove decayed dental pulp and damaged tooth roots that have been causing pain for a long period of time. After the root canal, you will experience gradually relief from the pain you felt beforehand.

Lack of Pain Means You Don't Need a Root Canal

You may be surprised to hear that you need a root canal if you aren't experiencing a great deal of pain. You might think that you don't really need to have a root canal procedure done. However, if your dentist or endodontist recommends the procedure and you don't have any pain, you have the good fortune to not yet have the degree of decay and infection that causes immense pain. It does not mean that your teeth are fine. In that case, it is wise for you to have the root canal done before you do start to suffer.

Missing Teeth are Preferable to a Root Canal

Another misconception is that if you have the choice to lose a tooth or get a root canal, losing a tooth is a better option. While removal of a tooth is a shorter procedure, having gaps in your mouth can be a problem from a dental health standpoint. When you are missing a tooth, the remaining surrounding teeth teeth can slowly start to shift. That can lead to problems with your gums, and in extreme cases, can ultimately change the shape of your face.

Root canals, on the other hand, allow you to retain the healthy roots of the teeth in your mouth, so that every tooth stays in place.

After reading this article, you should have a better understanding of how a root canal can be more bearable than you have thought in the past. Ask your endodontist, like Dodson Endodontics, any questions you may have, so that you can feel better about having the root canal done.