When people talk about dentistry, many myths are often brought up.
Debunking 6 Myths About Common Dental Procedures
For instance, the internet is full of horror stories about people who could not chew again after a filling or how some people swear that they would rather go through the pain of natural childbirth than get a root canal. Even your friends might have a story or two to tell you to scare you away from simple dental procedures.
Almost all of these scary stories are not based on facts. Dentistry has come a long way since the primitive techniques of bygone generations. Nowadays, common dental procedures are performed with state-of-the-art equipment that emphasizes safety, simplicity, and comfort. To set the record straight, here are six myths about dental procedures that are debunked.
Myth #1: A dental crown will prevent tooth decay.
Truth: A crown or cap provides some protection, but if you do not take proper care of your tooth, it will not prevent your tooth from developing decay beneath it. It doesn’t matter if the crown covers most of the tooth. However, you still need to continue brushing all of your teeth diligently, including teeth fitted with a crown.
Myth #2: Dental fillings cause a lot of discomforts.
Truth: There is no need to worry about that. Modern anesthetics and tools can numb the area around the tooth so you will not feel discomfort when the dentist fills the cavity. The procedure is very simple and can be done within one appointment. All you have to do is to sit back and relax. Before you know it, the procedure will be finished.
Myth #3: There’s nothing more painful than a root canal.
Truth: You might not believe it, but root canals are not painful. They might have been many decades ago when tools and techniques were not sophisticated. However, nowadays, technological advancements in dental tools and anesthetics can make root canals a comfortable procedure. They are done efficiently with few complications. These advancements allow root canals to do what they are supposed to do: remove pain resulting from a tooth infection.
Myth #4: A root canal is less effective than a tooth extraction.
Truth: The bottom line is that preserving your natural tooth is better than extracting it when possible. People felt that a tooth extraction would be better for them only because they assumed a root canal would be very painful. That myth is now debunked. Although you can get an extracted tooth replaced by an artificial tooth, if the condition is treatable by a root canal, the latter is a better option for preserving the normal function of your teeth.
Myth #5: Dental bridges do not stay inside the mouth.
Truth: Over time, bridges might become loose, but all you have to do is go to your dentist to tighten the bridge. This can be done during your regular checkup. Bridges are designed to be sturdy and effective in treating tooth loss.
Myth #6: Everyone will know if I get a dental implant.
Truth: Modern implants are made from porcelain that mimics the appearance of natural teeth. There is no metal, and they blend very well with your natural teeth. If you do not tell anyone you have dental implants, no one will notice.
Conclusion
So there is no need to worry about the above dental procedures. If you have questions about a procedure, ask your dentist for a thorough explanation so you will get all the facts and none of the myths. Your dentist will advise you on whether or not you need a particular procedure. With facts in hand, you will be able to make an informed decision on your dental health.
At Sacramento River Dental Group, we understand the importance of good oral health and how it can impact your overall well-being. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of common dental procedures to address all your dental concerns. Whether you need preventive care, restorative treatments, or cosmetic enhancements, our skilled team of dentists is committed to delivering high-quality care and exceptional results. We take a patient-centric approach, listening to your needs and preferences, and providing personalized treatments that best suit your unique situation. Schedule an appointment or contact us today and experience the difference in your smile.