Each May there is Root Canal Awareness Week. However, I’m going to jump the gun a little bit and get a plug in about it early. The purpose of the week is to educate people about root canals and alleviate the all-too-common fear of it being a very painful experience.
First of all, in today’s world there is little to fear about a root canal procedure. The stereotype of a root canal procedure being and ordeal that is to be feared is just that today – a stereotype. Don’t be fooled by an unreasonable fear because leaving an untreated problem with a tooth or teeth will undoubtedly lead to pain and more expense in the future.
So, we’ll try this coming week to remind everyone that if you need a root canal, do not be stressed out about it.
Finally, the week is also a good time to remind patients that good oral health (brushing twice daily and flossing daily) can help prevent the need of a root canal. If you need to have some cavities filled (we call them “carries”), then do so. A tooth with a cavity can quickly turn into a tooth needing a root canal and then most likely a crown to top it all off.
As I’ve noted in other blog entries, keeping good oral health includes twice-yearly visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning and examination.
