Your Dream Team for Beautiful Smiles and Faces

Your Dream Team for Beautiful Smiles and Faces

Root Canals – Debunking the Myths | Dentist in Southside Chicago

chatham chicago dentist

The internet is fraught with myths about everything. In this “information age” you might think it would be easy to find the truth, but that’s not always the case. Dentistry is no different. It’s no surprise that dental myths are abundant, especially in regard to some of the more intimidating procedures. However, advancements in dental technology have made it possible to receive the advanced care you need with little to no discomfort. Here are some common myths you might hear about root canals debunked. Contact our dental team in Southside Chicago to learn more. 

Myth 1: Root canals are painful. 

Long ago, this might have been the case. However, modern advancements in the techniques and technology available to dentists have made this procedure quick and relatively painless. In fact, the damaged tissue often causes more day-to-day pain and discomfort than the procedure itself will! 

Myth 2: Root canals can cause illness. 

In the 20th century there was a popular misconception that a root canal could put you at risk of developing illness or an infection. Not only has this been definitively disproven, but root canals have actually been shown to help prevent illness. According to a study published in a journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA Otolaryngology—Head & Neck Surgery), root canals can lower your risk of certain cancers by up to 45%. 

Myth 3: Extraction is a better option. 

When possible, it’s always preferable to keep your natural teeth. In addition to the inconvenience of dealing with a missing tooth, removing teeth can cause the surrounding ones to loosen and shift over time, possibly necessitating more procedures in the future. The success rate of a root canal treatment is extremely high and the tooth itself, with proper care, can last for a lifetime. 

Don’t let misinformation about dental care stop you from receiving the treatments you need. Contact our South Side Chicago, IL dental office today to schedule an appointment and set the record straight on root canals. 

Dental Dream Team
Phone: (773) 488-3738
820 East 87th Street Suite 201
Chicago, IL 60619

Visit Us

South Side Chicago Dentist
820 East 87th Street Suite 201,
Chicago, IL 60619

Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday: By appointment only

Contact Us

Yetta G. McCullom, D.D.S., M.S. (773) 488-3738
Cornell McCullom III, D.D.S., M.D. (773) 488-3738
Robin L. Ferguson, D.D.S., P.C. (773) 488-9075

In The News

South Side Chicago Dentist

  • ABC News
  • WVON - The Talk of Chicago
  • Healthfront
  • WCIU The U
  • WH - The Wellness Hour

Read Our Dental News

South Side Chicago Dentist

What is a Cosmetic Dentist? Chatham Chicago IL Dentist

What is a Cosmetic Dentist? Chatham Chicago IL Dentist

Despite popular belief, there is no official dental specialty for cosmetic dentistry. There are, however, countless courses, training programs and advanced training which can allow…

Read More >
May 15, 2023 | South Side Chicago Dentist
Should I Be Concerned About A Thumb Sucking Habit? | Best South Side Chicago Dentist

Should I Be Concerned About A Thumb Sucking Habit? | Best South Side Chicago Dentist

​​ Thumb sucking is one of the most recognizable behaviors found in children. Sucking is a natural reflex and infants and young children may use…

Read More >
May 01, 2023 | South Side Chicago Dentist
Healthy Smile, Healthy Body | Best Dentist Near Me

Healthy Smile, Healthy Body | Best Dentist Near Me

Good oral hygiene habits are essential to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. What  you might not know is that research has found the health…

Read More >
April 15, 2023 | South Side Chicago Dentist