Root canal treatment has acquired a reputation as an unpleasant, painful procedure over the years; yet, these misconceptions put patients with endodontic issues at risk of developing complications further down the line. Information obtained from non-medical sources is often incorrect, or based on personal opinions and assumptions. Keeping patients well-informed can often be a struggle as many rely on the convenience of the internet to find information.
Continuing to strive for excellent patient understanding and education is the reliable way to encourage patient confidence when considering root canal treatment.
No pain, no gain
A lack of pain in the affected area may prevent patients from seeking treatment. A study found that some patients may not experience pain from the progression of inflamed dental pulps to necrosis. Similarly, another study found that endo-perio lesions are often free of symptoms for long periods of time, until more acute symptoms develop.
Education and communication is crucial to ensure that patients recognise the various symptoms of a pulp infection. Those who experience symptoms, such as toothache, are advised to visit their dentist, yet those who do not experience pain may be less likely to desire treatment.
How can dentists combat this issue? Patient education can be achieved before they have even entered the treatment room. Having informative leaflets and posters in the waiting room is one method, or dentists could upload educational content to their social media, outlining the symptoms and progression of endodontic issues. When dentists do see their patients, encouraging questions and giving simple, yet thorough explanations will help to establish a confident relationship and make root canal treatment a viable option for them.
When you’re expecting…
Pregnancy-related changes to oral health may increase the patient’s risk of developing dental issues, possibly due to the fluctuations in the oral microbiome triggered by changes in the body. Thus, it is imperative that pregnant women are well-informed on how to better care for their oral health during this time, as well as the fact that it is safe to undergo dental treatment should the need arise. However, there is a common myth that certain dental procedures are unsafe for pregnant women.
Due to the necessity for radiographs, some women may be cautious about undergoing root canal treatment. However, according to the American Dental Association, the radiation from dental X-rays is very low, therefore safe for those pregnant. One study also concluded that intraoral radiographs are safe during pregnancy, as the X-rays are directed to the mouth, not the abdomen. Further preventative measures, such as a leaded apron, are also taken by dental professionals for their pregnant patients. Many researchers have also concluded that any necessary dental treatment should be performed during the second trimester, which is considered the safest period.
It is imperative that those who are pregnant, or suspect themselves to be pregnant, communicate this with their dentist. They should also be encouraged to share any concerns they may about the root canal procedure, so the treatment can proceed with confidence and assurance.
A thing of the past
The prospect of a painful procedure is certainly not an inviting one, so it is no wonder that pain has been shown to be one of the main concerns regarding the root canal procedure. Yet, as digital technology now plays an impressive role within dentistry, dental treatments are being performed much more comfortably than ever before.
The misconception that root canal treatments are painful was certainly true of the past, but because modern dentists use anaesthetic, as well as equipment that has advanced over time, the procedure is virtually painless. Dentists can help patients feel more confident about undergoing treatment; as well as offering reassurance and answers to any queries, dentists may also give them the opportunity to take a break during the treatment, should they need to.
Patients who have undergone treatment could attest to its painlessness in a testimonial, which dentists may share on their social medias. Not only will this provide feedback for the dentist, but will also inform new patients on the ease of the treatment.
Tools you can rely on
The tools used during the procedure are also an important part of the process. Dentists require equipment that is durable, dependable and can ensure comfort for both themselves and their patients. Available from Coltene is the CanalPro™ Jeni endomotor, an innovative navigation tool with digital assistance system for canal preparation. The CanalPro™ Jeni streamlines endodontic procedures by using complex algorithms, an apex locator and acoustic signals. By using a reliable and versatile tool, dentists can confidently perform root canal treatment, with a higher potential for successful outcomes.
Misconceptions regarding root canal treatment can be the difference between a painful life and a life of oral comfort, so it is crucial for all dental professionals to strive for clarity and understanding when communicating with patients. Doing so will help patients undergo root canal treatment with confidence and help them smile, pain-free.
To find out more about the CanalPro Jeni™, visit: https://canalpro.coltene.com/jeni/
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