In many cases, patients with an infected or damaged tooth are told that they should undergo root canal therapy. However, some individuals choose to get the tooth removed instead. They may do so because they want to spend as little money as possible, but often, their decision is influenced by the popular idea that root canal therapy can lead to cancer. Is there any truth to that notion? Do root canals cause cancer in Belmont? The answer is no. Read on below to learn more about this important topic.
Why Do Some People Think that Root Canal Therapy Causes Cancer?
Approximately 100 years ago, a dentist by the name of Weston Price suspected that root canals could have bad consequences for patients’ health. To investigate his idea, he conducted some personal research and came to the conclusion that root canal therapy is a major risk factor for cancer and other grievous illnesses. His reasoning was that the treatment leaves behind toxins in the body. Those toxins then lead to cancer, heart disease, arthritis, and other serious conditions.
The results of Price’s research echo down to our day. Many people — surprisingly, even a handful of dentists — believe that root canal therapy is a precursor for life-threatening illnesses. However, it is important to scrutinize Price’s experiments. His research was deeply flawed.
Do Not Believe the Myth
Here are three big reasons why you should not give any credit to the idea that root canal treatment can cause cancer:
- No modern-day studies have been able to duplicate the results of Price’s research.
- The conditions in Price’s experiments were not well-controlled.
- The environments where his experiments took place were not properly sterilized.
There is simply no empirical scientific research to indicate that root canal therapy can increase a person’s risk of developing cancer. If someone is diagnosed with cancer following dental treatment, that is likely to be nothing more than a sad coincidence.
Risks and Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Of course, it must be acknowledged that although root canal therapy does not cause cancer, it does come with some minor risks. For example, there is a small chance that a posttreatment infection will develop. There is also the possibility that the initial root canal will not be successful, leading to the need for retreatment in the future.
By and large, the benefits of root canal therapy outweigh the risks. A successful treatment can preserve a damaged tooth, end an excruciating toothache, and possibly even save you money in the long run.
There are many genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that can contribute to the development of cancer. Fortunately, root canal therapy is not one of them. If you have any questions or concerns about this treatment, speak to your dentist. They will be happy to talk with you.
Meet the Practice
The team at the Center for Contemporary Dentistry in Belmont provides comfortable and effective treatments in a welcoming environment. Root canal therapy is among the many services we offer. To learn how we can support your oral and overall health, contact us at 603-556-7047.