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Sep 2024
54m 34s

The Surprising Truth About Root Canals ...

HEAL THY SELF
About this episode

In a recent discussion with Dr. Sonia Chopra, a board-certified endodontist, we explored the intricacies of root canals, shedding light on their safety, efficacy, and common misconceptions. Dr. Chopra emphasizes that when performed by qualified professionals, root canals can effectively save teeth and prevent further dental issues. She highlights the stark contrast between well-executed and poorly done procedures, noting the complications that can arise from inadequate care. Advances in modern technology, such as 3D imaging and sound wave disinfection techniques, significantly enhance the success rates of root canals, which boast an impressive success rate of 95-97%. Dr. Chopra underscores the importance of patient advocacy, encouraging individuals to be proactive in their dental care, seek second opinions, and fully understand their treatment options. Through compelling anecdotes, including a case involving a 16-year-old girl whose root canal preserved her jaw and smile, she illustrates the potential positive outcomes of quality care, while also revealing that 50% of her practice involves addressing poorly executed root canals, underscoring the necessity for vigilance in dental treatment.


#rootcanals #dentist #teeth


Dr. Sonia Chopra

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsoniachopra/


Website: www.drsoniachopra.com


Become your own advocate: https://drsoniachopra.com/endodontic-patient-course/


Timestamps:

0:00 - Introduction: Root canals can be done safely

1:49 - Dr. Chopra's background and importance of oral health

3:36 - The controversy around root canals

5:41 - Issues with dental education on root canals

8:28 - What makes a bad vs. good root canal

12:46 - What happens when canals are missed during a root canal

15:36 - How long infections can persist after a bad root canal

18:14 - Finding a qualified endodontist for root canals

21:48 - Why extracting teeth isn't always better than root canals

25:41 - Addressing concerns about "dead teeth" after root canals

28:41 - Explaining cavitations in the jaw

31:54 - Differences between periodontal and endodontic disease

35:18 - Best practices for oral hygiene and preventing root canals

41:14 - Electric vs. manual toothbrushes

43:11 - Water flossing vs. regular flossing

44:10 - Importance of regular dental visits and consistent care

49:55 - How eating habits affect oral health

52:02 - Final thoughts on dental care


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