Five root canal myths, and what actually happens

Few treatments worry patients more than a root canal, yet most people who have one say it felt like a filling.

Myth 1: It is very painful

The pain people remember is usually the infection before treatment. With modern anaesthesia the procedure itself is comfortable.

Myth 2: Pulling the tooth is better

Keeping your natural tooth is almost always better for chewing and for the bone around it. Replacing a pulled tooth costs more and takes longer.

Myth 3: It takes many visits

Many root canals are completed in a single visit with rotary instruments.