Hearing the words “root canal” might make your heart skip a beat. It’s a term loaded with decades of horror stories and misconceptions. But if you’ve been told you need this tooth-saving procedure, there is no need to panic. The reality of modern endodontics is far different from the scary stories you might have heard.
At Dentistry at Bridlewood in Ocala, FL, Dr. Stephen H. Dunn and Dr. Guneshi de Mel are here to set the record straight. Let’s separate fact from fiction so you can make informed decisions about your dental health without unnecessary fear.
Myth #1: Root Canals Are Excruciatingly Painful
This is perhaps the biggest myth of all. Decades ago, before modern anesthetics and precision tools, dental work could be uncomfortable. However, that reputation has unfairly stuck around.
The Reality: A root canal is actually designed to relieve pain, not cause it. Most patients report that the procedure feels no different than getting a routine filling. The pain you feel before the appointment comes from the infection inside the tooth, not the treatment itself. Once our team removes the damaged pulp and seals the tooth, that throbbing toothache disappears.
Myth #2: Root Canals Cause Illness
You may have stumbled upon internet articles claiming root canals contribute to systemic diseases. This stems from debunked research conducted nearly a century ago.
The Reality: There is no valid scientific evidence linking root canal-treated teeth to disease elsewhere in the body. In fact, removing the infection from your mouth promotes better overall health. Leaving a decaying tooth untreated is far more dangerous, as the bacteria can spread to your jaw, neck, or even your bloodstream.
Myth #3: It’s Better to Just Pull the Tooth
Some patients believe extracting the tooth is a quicker, cheaper fix than saving it.
The Reality: Nothing looks, feels, or functions exactly like your natural tooth. While extraction might seem easier upfront, replacing a missing tooth with a bridge or implant often requires more time, more procedures, and higher costs in the long run. Saving your natural tooth through a root canal allows you to maintain your natural bite and smile structure for years to come.
How Modern Technology Changes the Game
Why are root canals so much easier today? It comes down to advancements in dental technology. At Dentistry at Bridlewood, we utilize modern diagnostic tools that allow Dr. Dunn and Dr. de Mel to see exactly what is happening inside your tooth before they even begin.
We also understand that anxiety is real. That is why we offer sedation options to help you relax. Whether it is nitrous oxide or oral sedation, our goal is to ensure you feel calm and comfortable throughout your visit.
Why Choose Dentistry at Bridlewood for Your Root Canal?
When it comes to saving your smile, you want a team that combines clinical excellence with genuine compassion. Dr. Stephen H. Dunn and Dr. Guneshi de Mel lead a skilled team dedicated to patient-centered care right here in Ocala.
We don’t just treat teeth; we treat people. We take the time to explain every step of the process, ensuring you never feel rushed or confused. Our practice is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to make your treatment precise, efficient, and surprisingly comfortable.
Don’t let outdated myths stop you from getting the relief you need. If you are experiencing tooth pain, trust the caring hands at Dentistry at Bridlewood to restore your smile.
Contact Dentistry at Bridlewood – Stephen H Dunn & Associates:
352-873-2000
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
7555 SW Highway 200, Ocala FL
Ocala, Florida
34476