Root canal therapy often gets a bad rap, but it's one of the most effective ways to save a damaged tooth and maintain your dental health. Whether you're considering the procedure or just curious, here are five things you might not know about root canal therapy:

First, what is root canal therapy (RCT)?

Root canal therapy is a dental procedure designed to remove infected or damaged pulp from the inside of a tooth. By eliminating the source of infection, this treatment preserves the natural tooth and prevents further complications, such as abscesses or the need for extraction. Understanding the importance of root canal therapy can help alleviate fears and misconceptions.

Here are 5 things you might not know about root canal therapy:

1. Ancient civilizations practiced rudimentary forms of endodontics.

Root canal therapy isn't a new concept. Evidence suggests that ancient civilizations, like the Egyptians, practiced rudimentary forms of endodontic treatments. Modern advancements have significantly improved the procedure, making it safer and more effective.

2. Root canal therapy has a very high success rate.

Root canal therapy boasts a high success rate, with studies indicating that treated teeth can last a lifetime with proper care. This is because the procedure eliminates the infected tissue and seals the tooth to prevent future infections. Dr. Nieves and Dr. Angistrioti are experts in endodontic care and use advanced technology like the GentleWave® machine to keep that success rate high.

3. RCT uses modern technology that's pretty amazing.

Speaking of advancements, dental technology has significantly improved over the last few decades, and much of that technology is used in root canal therapy. Innovations such as digital imaging and rotary endodontics have made the procedure faster, more precise and considerably less uncomfortable. And, like mentioned above, we use the GentleWave® machine to get one of the most thorough cleans possible in root canal therapy.

4. Root canal therapy actually saves your tooth before they decay beyond repair.

Choosing root canal therapy over extraction helps preserve your natural tooth, which is crucial for maintaining proper chewing function and preventing the shifting of adjacent teeth. It also means you don't have to go through the more painful experience of getting a tooth pulled, which can sometimes lead to even further complications.

5. Root canal therapy is cost-effective in the long run.

While the upfront cost of a root canal may seem high, it is often more cost-effective than extraction followed by implant or bridge placement. Preserving the natural tooth can save you money and hassle in the long term.

At Granbury Endodontics, we're experts in root canal therapy

Root canal therapy is an essential, often misunderstood, dental procedure that can save your natural tooth and maintain your oral health. By debunking common myths and understanding the benefits and advancements in modern dentistry, you can approach root canal therapy with confidence and peace of mind. If you're experiencing tooth pain or aren't sure what to do after being referred by a dentist for root canal therapy, contact our office and we can get you started down the happy path!