The Truth Behind Root Canals Pittsburgh, PA
Root canals are one of the most common dental procedures. A root canal treatment is when the dentist removes inflamed or infected pulp from the tooth center, cleans and disinfects the remaining space, and then fills and seals it. This procedure eliminates bacteria from the affected area, prevents reinfection, and preserves your natural tooth.
Root canals are available at Stop the Clock Dental Implant and Cosmetic Studio and the surrounding area. Chances are you have heard a lot of misconceptions about the procedure. Our staff can provide the truth behind root canals—call 412-265-1416 to schedule a consultation.
When Root Canals Are Necessary
Root canal treatments are one of the most common types of endodontic treatment. They become necessary when the inner tissue of the tooth's root canal (or pulp) becomes infected or inflamed. This may happen for several reasons: cracks or chips in the teeth, deep decay, or repeated dental procedures. The pulp may also sometimes be infected or inflamed without any signs of external damage.
There are some other telltale signs that someone may need a root canal. As endodontists are experts in addressing tooth pain, patients should seek medical attention immediately if they begin experiencing severe pain while biting or chewing. Many patients who need root canals also develop pimples on the gums, temperature sensitivity, swollen or tender gums, or darkened gums.
“As endodontists are experts in addressing tooth pain, patients should seek medical attention immediately if they begin experiencing severe pain while biting or chewing.”
A Safe and Common Procedure
Root canals happen more often than you think. According to the American Association of Endodontists, more than 15 million of them were performed from 2005 to 2006. That breaks down to 41,000 procedures performed in the United States every day. Root canals eliminate bacteria from the tooth and ultimately save it from needing to be removed.
Often, the procedure allows patients to keep their natural teeth for a lifetime. Despite the frequent misconceptions, root canals are low-risk and can be compared to a routine cavity filling. Thanks to advancements in dental techniques and technologies, root canals yield successful outcomes with fewer complications.
“Root canals are more common than you think.”
Misinformation About Root Canals
Research shows as many as 15% of people avoid having dental procedures such as root canals every year due to several common misconceptions. Even though most people would rather avoid these procedures, root canals present a much better option than a tooth extraction. Let us debunk some of the myths about root canals.
Myth #1: It is Extremely Painful
According to a survey by the American Association of Endodontists, 67% of Americans say their fear of pain is what keeps them from having a root canal. Thanks to modern dental technology, a patient getting a root canal will not experience any more pain than a filling. The infection in the tooth is likely causing more pain, which the root canal can relieve. While there will be some discomfort post-procedure, our dentist can manage it.
Myth #2: A Root Canal Will Make Me Sick
Unfortunately, many discussions online claim that getting a root canal will increase one's risk for other health issues, such as cancer, in the future. That is not true. This claim came out of poorly designed research done more than 100 years ago. Researchers have confirmed that there is no valid evidence linking root canals to any other diseases.
Myth #3: It is Better to Just Remove the Tooth
When choosing between saving a tooth and having it removed, always opt for preserving the natural tooth. No dental implant can match the look or functionality of a natural tooth. If a root canal gives a patient a chance to save the natural tooth, they should strongly consider it.
“Thanks to modern dental technology, a patient getting a root canal will not experience any more pain than a filling.”
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What to Know About Root Canals
Though root canal treatments are a safe and standard procedure, some complications may occasionally occur. These are rare but still crucial for patients to know about. The likeliest possible complication is that new infections may occur after a root canal treatment. Reasons may involve:
- A breakdown of the filling material, allowing bacteria back into the inner tooth
- A higher-than-anticipated number of root canals in a tooth, leaving one or more uncleaned
- A problem with the restoration allowing bacteria into the inner tooth
- An undetected crack in the tooth's root
In most cases, a doctor can address these problems with endodontic retreatment. Occasionally, however, endodontic surgery may be necessary (most commonly an apicoectomy, also known as a root-end resection).
“Though root canal treatments are a safe and common procedure, some complications may occasionally occur.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. Are there any complications associated with root canals?
Q. Are root canals a safe and common procedure?
Q. What is common misinformation about root canals?
Q. What are the pros and cons of root canals?
People Also Ask
Q. How can a root canal help save my cracked tooth?
Q. What is the difference between endodontists and dentists?
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 Stop the Clock Dental Implant and Cosmetic Studio can help. Call us today at 412-265-1416 to schedule an appointment and learn more.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2026
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2026
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2026
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