Should I Be Worried About Cancer After Having a Root Canal?

Your dentist informs you that a root canal is necessary to save your tooth and avoid extraction. Startled by the idea, you begin to wonder, “Is it safe?” With all the information available on the internet these days, many myths are circulating about this common procedure, one of which is that root canals increase the risk for cancer. Before you put your oral health in jeopardy by refusing treatment, a dentist in Weyauwega is here to debunk this myth and explain why this necessary procedure is completely safe.

The Myth Behind “Do Root Canals Cause Cancer?”

According to a dentist in the early 20^th century, patients who underwent root canal therapy were at an increased risk for developing cancer and other serious health conditions. Why? After studying dead teeth, he believed they contained dangerous toxins that could spread and cause harmful diseases to develop. Before you buy into this theory, there are many problems with this particular dentist’s research:

1. There was a lack of control with regard to the conditions he used for his experiments
2. The environments used were nonsterile
3. No one else has come to the same conclusion (achieved the same results)

The truth is that while there may be some individuals who have succumbed to cancer and had a root canal at some point in their life, it doesn’t mean their dental procedure was the cause. There are no peer-reviewed articles or research to back up this claim. Unfortunately, this misinformation only causes intense anxiety and fear among individuals who learn they need a root canal.

Why Root Canals Are a Safe Method of Treatment

Choosing to move forward with root canal therapy is a smart decision. Most dentists will never recommend this type of treatment if it isn’t absolutely necessary. Severe decay and damage can and will worsen over time if left untreated, resulting in potential bone and tooth loss.

A root canal will allow you to keep your natural tooth instead of spending valuable time and money getting a solution to replace it. The process itself requires removing the decayed or damaged portions of your tooth and sealing it to avoid future reinfection. Also, your dentist will ensure that a custom-made dental crown is created and bonded into place over your weakened tooth.

A qualified dentist with experience performing root canals will ensure that you remain safe and comfortable throughout your procedure. They will also provide detailed instructions to ensure a successful recovery that is void of complications. Your decision to save your smile will not only lead to positive results, but it will also be one you won’t regret.

About the Author
Dr. William Twohig is an emergency dentist who has been helping patients achieve healthier smiles for more than 40 years. Providing alternative methods of dentistry by using a whole-body approach, he can treat all types of dental problems through his natural and holistic methods. Need a root canal but are worried it will hurt or that you will face potential health complications as a result? Visit our website or call (920) 867-3101 to learn more about this procedure and how Dr. Twohig will take extra precautions to ensure your safety and comfort.