Happy Root Canal Awareness Week!
Despite state-of-the-art advancements in endodontic treatment that make root canal procedures often as straightforward as fillings, Americans still express fear of the procedure. According to a recent survey by the American Association of Endodontists, 67 percent of Americans say fear of pain most concerns them about having root canal treatment.
The AAE hopes to dispel these fears during its tenth anniversary celebration of Root Canal Awareness Week, March 27 – April 2. Root Canal Awareness Week is a nationwide effort to encourage patients who need a root canal to see an endodontist to save their natural teeth. Endodontists have at least two years of additional training beyond dental school and are highly skilled specialists in performing root canals and diagnosing and treating tooth pain. Their mix of advanced training, techniques and equipment improve patient comfort, ease anxiety and alleviate pain.
"Endodontists, the root canal specialists, devote their practice to root canal treatment and related procedures," said AAE President Dr. Terryl A. Propper, a private practicing endodontist in Nashville, Tenn. "We use technologies like microscopes, digital and 3-D imaging and ultrasonics to diagnose and treat our patients quickly, comfortably and successfully."
AAE research shows that dentists refer an average of 43 percent of root canal patients to an endodontist, yet almost all general dentists surveyed, 94 percent, say they have a positive or very positive perception of endodontists and the care they provide.
"Even if your dentist does not recommend a root canal specialist, ask about the benefits of consulting one," said Dr. Propper. "Americans are taking more control of their health care, and that should include oral health. Patients who need root canal treatment should consider seeing an endodontist."
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