Onawa IA Dentist | Root Canals – Debunking the Myths

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 Onawa dental office 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 Family 1st Dental today to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Onawa and set the record straight on root canals.

Family 1st Dental of Onawa
Phone: (712) 433-3937
Url: https://ffdonawa.com/
909 Iowa Avenue
Onawa, IA 51040

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our Onawa Dental Office

Dentist Onawa

Onawa Location

909 Iowa Avenue,
Onawa, IA 51040

(712) 433-3937

Dentist Onawa Dr Duarte

Our Dental News

Dentist Onawa

The Vital Link Between Nutrition and Oral Health

August 5, 2026

Nutrition plays a pivotal role in maintaining optimal oral health. At Family 1st Dental – Onawa, located at 909 Iowa Avenue, we understand that what individuals eat can significantly influence dental wellness. From the first bite of food to the […]

Enhance Your Athletic Safety and Performance with Custom Mouthguards from Family 1st Dental – Onawa

August 3, 2026

At Family 1st Dental – Onawa, located at 909 Iowa Avenue, we understand that protecting your smile is essential, especially for athletes. Engaging in sports often comes with risks, and custom-fitted mouthguards provide a vital layer of protection. This article […]

Effective Ways to Manage Tooth Sensitivity for a Healthier Smile

July 31, 2026

Tooth sensitivity can be an uncomfortable and distressing condition that affects many individuals. Those who experience it often find themselves wincing at the thought of consuming hot or cold beverages, or even enjoying sweet treats. Understanding how to manage this […]