| Patients are more Afraid of Tooth Loss than of Root Canals |
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| Wednesday, 20 February 2024 11:24 |
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Although it is generally believed that root-canal treatment is considered one of the most unpleasant medical procedures by the majority of patients, a recent survey has revealed that most people are more afraid of losing their permanent teeth than undergoing root-canal treatment or getting the flu — despite the particularly high flu activity this season. The survey was conducted at the beginning of the year by members of the American Association of Endodontics. Among other findings, they found that 74 percent of survey participants hoped to avoid losing a permanent tooth, while 73 percent said that they wanted to avoid the flu. In addition, 70 percent of the participants said that they would avoid undergoing root-canal treatment and 60 percent were more anxious about root-canal treatment than getting a tooth pulled (57 percent) or receiving a dental implant (54 percent). According to the association, an estimated 15.1 million root-canal treatments were performed in 2005 and 2006 , of which 10.9 million (72 percent) were performed by general dentists and 4.2 million (28 percent) by endodontists. The survey was conducted in preparation for the seventh annual Root Canal Awareness Week taking place from March 17 to 23. The aim of the program is to encourage collaboration between general dentists and endodontists in order to preserve patients' natural teeth and to help anxious patients. According to Dr. James C. Kulild, the association's president, 94 percent of general practitioners agree that endodontists are partners in delivering quality dental care and 89 percent of patients report being satisfied after root-canal treatment by an endodontist. Several documents about the subject can be downloaded free from the association's website. |