Dentist in Greenville

According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), there are three major misconceptions many people have regarding root canal therapy. Unfortunately, these patients may make decisions about their health care based on this incomplete or inaccurate information. Take a look at these myths and truths behind this important treatment option.

Myth 1: Root canal treatment causes pain.

This commonly held perception predates modern dentistry. Patients who have actually experienced root canal therapy are 6 times more likely to describe the procedure as painless than those who have never had the treatment.

Truth 1: Root canal treatment relieves pain.

In reality, the only pain that is generally associated with root canal therapy is caused by the underlying reason for the treatment – tooth decay or infected or diseased tissue. The root canal treatment removes this damaged tissue from the tooth, relieving the pain in the process.

Myth 2: Root canal treatment causes further illness or infection in the body.

This unfortunate belief stems from a long-discredited report from nearly 100 years ago that still turns up during internet searches. This report by Dr. Weston Price was highly criticized in its own time for the sub-standard research methods he used, and his conclusions were being debunked as early as the 1930s.

Truth 2: There is no scientific evidence whatsoever that suggests root canal treatment may cause other illness or infection in the body.

In fact, root canal therapy has been proven to have a much lower incidence of bacteria entering the blood stream than tooth extraction and causes much less trauma to the patient. Recent research has also found that patients who have had multiple root canal treatments have a 45% lower risk of cancer than patients who have not.

Myth 3: Tooth extraction is always a better option than root canal treatment.

Sometimes a tooth cannot be saved. When that happens, extraction is far better than leaving a diseased tooth in place. However, there is no perfect replacement for a natural tooth. Even the best tooth replacement options may leave you needing to avoid certain foods. Additionally, missing teeth can lead to jaw bone resorption over time.

Truth 3: Saving natural teeth, when possible, may be the best option for overall health.

By saving the natural tooth whenever possible, doctors and patients avoid the need for further, more costly restoration treatment. Root canal treatment has a very high success rate and can often allow the natural tooth to last a lifetime.

Our doctor makes every effort to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. We will review your oral health needs carefully before recommending any treatment.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact our office.

Dental Services

    
 
 
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   Karen Newcomb 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am a newer patient to Willoughby Dental. I called on a Thursday morning and asked if they could see me later that afternoon as I was in pain. The receptionist was extremely kind and friendly, as she always is, and was able to find a spot to fit me into the schedule at the end of the day. I was extremely grateful since it was a last minute phone call and I was in pain.

Dr. Willoughby was friendly, as always, and assessed my issue. He and his assistant were able to fix my tooth Ina short amount of time. After the novacaine wore off, I was no longer in pain.

I am very grateful that Willoughby Dental is a flexible practice and was able to get me in because I was in pain. I have had dentists in the past that, even though I was in pain, they were not at all flexible and would  not fit me into the schedule to fix my issue.

I highly recommend Willoughby Dental. Dr. Willoughby is professional, knowledgeable and friendly. He cares about his patients
  
 
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   Blake 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Warner is by far the best dentist I’ve ever been to, both in professionalism and skill. I’ve unfortunately dealt with some unique dental issues, yet you’d never know it thanks to the comfort and care he and his team provide at every visit. They make you feel genuinely appreciated as a patient. I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else!
  
 
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   William Yaeger 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had 6 month cleaning which was well done and refreshing as usual. Dr Warner’s patients always receive the best care which is why I have been a patient for many years and highly recommend him.
  
 
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   Patrick Hunter 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great service, pleasant staff and thorough care. Dr. Matt and his team are great. Been going here for years.
  
 
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   Edna Hollingsworth 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was a pleasant experience. Your friendliness and professionalism made me comfortable to be there.
  
 
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   Jennifer Russo 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very detailed and thorough dentist and staff.
Total perfection with my tooth replacement.
Highly recommend this dental practice.