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True or False: Root Canals Cause Cancer

April 18, 2022

Filed under: Uncategorized — Lissa @ 5:02 pm
Woman with glasses and blazer wondering

Over the years, there have been countless false rumors about root canal therapy. One of the most prevailing ones is that this procedure causes illnesses. Naturally, this leads many patients to postpone treatment or put it off entirely. However, it’s important to know that this is nothing more than a myth. So, if you’ve been wondering, “Do root canals cause cancer?” then keep reading to learn the truth about this tooth-saving treatment!

Disproving the Myth That Root Canals Cause Cancer

The myth that root canals cause cancer stems from the research that Weston Price did in the 1920s. He hypothesized that a tooth that received treatment could still harbor harmful toxins that could breed cancer. However, it’s important to note that his tests were poorly controlled, conducted in non-sterile environments, and haven’t been duplicated. Furthermore, no peer-reviewed, controlled studies have found a link between cancer and root canals. In reality, there is a larger danger in not getting a root canal.

What Happens If You Don’t Get a Root Canal When You Need One?

Despite popular belief, root canal therapy is actually good news. Essentially, it means that the tooth can be saved and doesn’t need to be extracted! If you postpone treatment, then the damage can continue to dig deeper into the tooth, eventually “killing” the nerve. Although that may stop the discomfort, it is the next step toward the infection spreading throughout your mouth. If left untreated for long enough, root canal therapy will no longer be an option. Instead, the tooth will need to be extracted entirely and replaced with a dental implant or bridge.

6 Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Not only are root canals entirely safe, but they also provide several benefits, including the fact that they:

  • Prevent tooth loss
  • Restore your chewing power
  • Protect neighboring teeth from damage
  • Enhance the appearance of the tooth
  • Prevent jawbone deterioration
  • Boost your oral and overall health

To this day, root canals continue to be one of the most feared procedures. However, the information that incites that concern is often untrue. Sadly, this results in countless patients not getting the tooth-saving treatment they need. Don’t let that happen to you! If you have a question about the procedure, then don’t hesitate to speak directly with your dentist.

About the Practice

At Worcester Endodontics, patients can place their smiles in the hands of four exceptional tooth-saving specialists. As a team, they focus on providing the absolute best care that results in beautiful, happy, and healthy smiles. Plus, they would be more than happy to answer any questions you have about root canal therapy to ease your concerns and disprove some common myths. If you’re especially nervous, don’t worry – we offer sedation dentistry as well. So, if you have a question about the root canal process or would like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (508) 755-3636.