Are Root Canals Safe? Get the Facts Here

Reviewed by Dr. Gary Morris, DDS

Reading time: five minutes.

Are root canals safe?

The truth is: root canals are safe, effective, and way less dramatic than they’re made out to be.

Let’s dig into the facts and clear up the drama around root canal therapy.

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure that treats infected or damaged pulp. The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth containing blood vessels and nerves.

If a tooth becomes infected due to deep decay, a crack, or injury, the pulp can become inflamed or infected, leading to severe pain.

Root canal therapy includes removingthe infected pulp, thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and then filling it with a filling material to create a secure seal. This procedure can save the tooth, allowing you to keep your natural tooth rather than needing an extraction.

Are Root Canals Safe?

The short answer is, yes, root canals are safe when performed by an experienced endodontist.

Millions of root canals are performed every year, with the vast majority resulting in a successful outcome.

Modern procedures use advanced technology and materials that reduce risks and improve the overall safety of the treatment.

The procedure itself is generally no more painful than getting a filling.

Root Canal vs. Extraction

One of the biggest decisions you might face when dealing with a damaged or infected tooth is whether to save the tooth with a root canal or opt for extraction.

Here’s the difference:

• Root canal treatment: Aims to save the natural tooth by removing the infected pulp and sealing the tooth. This allows you to preserve your natural dentition, maintain the function of your tooth, and avoid the need for a dental implant or bridge.
• Tooth extraction: Involves removing the entire tooth. While extraction can resolve immediate issues, it often leads to the need for a replacement, such as a dental implant, which can be more expensive and require more procedures.

Most dentists recommend a root canal if the tooth can be saved, as it’s less invasive and preserves the natural structure of the tooth. 

For tips on how to prevent a root canal, read this blog: How to Avoid a Root Canal.

The Effectiveness and Safety of Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is incredibly effective in treating infections caused by dead tissue or an infected pulp.

The goal is to remove the source of the infection, clean the tooth thoroughly, and seal it. With modern techniques and sterilization methods, the risks of infection spreading or lingering bacteria are minimal.

However, there are potential risks to be aware of:

• Infection leakage: Sometimes, residual bacteria can be left behind, especially in microscopic crevices of the tooth. This can cause the infection to return, though modern sterilization techniques help reduce this risk.
• Tooth shifting: After a root canal, the tooth may become more fragile, especially if a significant amount of tissue is removed. A dental crown is often placed over the tooth to protect it and restore its function.
• Spread of infection: Although rare, untreated infections can spread beyond the tooth, affecting the jaw bone or other parts of the body. This is why early intervention is key to preventing more severe health issues.

Root Canals and Your Overall Health

A common concern some people have is whether they can lead to systemic health problems.

There have been long-debunked theories linking root canals to chronic diseases, such as heart disease or even cancer, but well-designed studies have largely discredited these ideas.

The focus should be on ensuring the infection is fully removed and properly treated during the procedure.

While root canals are considered safe, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Systemic health concerns: In very rare cases, systemic diseases like autoimmune disorders may cause complications. However, for most people, the procedure does not lead to health problems.
• Infected tooth: If the tooth is not treated, the infection can spread, leading to more serious health concerns. This is why addressing an infected tooth early is crucial.

The Root Canal Procedure: What to Expect

The process of getting a canal typically involves the following steps:

1. Diagnosis: Your endodontist will examine the tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of the infection.
2. Anesthetic: They will use a local anesthetic to numb the area surrounding the affected tooth, ensuring the procedure is completely pain-free for you.
3. Removing the pulp: A small opening is created in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp. The infected tissue will be removed, and the roots of the tooth will be cleaned and disinfected.
4. Sealing the tooth: Once the tooth is clean and dry, the canals will be filled with a special filler substance, and the tooth will be sealed.
5. Restoring the tooth: A dental crown is often placed to protect the tooth and restore its function.

The procedure typically takes one to two appointments, depending on the complexity of the case. While some discomfort may occur post-treatment, it can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Myths About Root Canals

There are plenty of misconceptions floating around about canals. Let’s set the record straight:

Myth: Root canals are extremely painful. 

Fact: With modern anesthetics, the procedure is no more painful than getting a filling. Afterward, any discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with pain relievers.

Myth: Root canals cause cancer or other systemic diseases. 

Fact: As mentioned earlier, well-designed research has debunked this claim. Root canals are safe and do not cause cancer or other health issues.

Myth: Root canals are not effective long-term. 

Fact: When properly done, a treated tooth can last for many years.

Myth: Root canals aren’t safe during pregnancy.

Fact: Root canals are safe during pregnancy. Dentists take extra precautions, such as using pregnancy-safe anesthetics and minimizing X-rays, to ensure your health and your baby’s safety. Leaving an infected tooth untreated is more dangerous to the mother and fetus than having a root canal. 

Book Your Dental Appointment Today in Buffalo Grove, IL

If you’re dealing with a tooth infection, toothache, or any dental concerns, it’s time to take action.

Our dental office in Buffalo Grove, IL, offers safe, modern root canal therapy with a focus on effective treatment, oral health, and long-term dental care.

Call (847) 215-1511 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form. We are located at 195 N Arlington Heights Rd Ste 160, Buffalo Grove, IL.