With the rise of the internet and social media, a vast repository of information about health and wellness is now at everyone’s fingertips. While it’s incredible that all kinds of people can learn more about how to take care of themselves, it also means that misinformation can travel incredibly fast.
For example, you might have heard rumors about root canals being dangerous, and that they could even be linked to cancer. However, this isn’t necessarily what it appears to be. Here’s what you should know.
Do Root Canals Cause Cancer?
The answer is no. The idea that root canals cause cancer is not a new one, and these claims have been thoroughly investigated time and time again over the last 100 years. The result has been no evidence of a link between getting root canals at any age and an increased risk of cancer.
The American Dental Association (ADA), American Association of Endodontists (AAE), and American Association of Dental Research (AADR) have all released public statements in recent years to this effect, letting patients know that there’s no risk of developing cancer associated with endodontic treatment.
Where Does this Idea Come From?
If there’s no evidence of a link between root canals and cancer, where did this idea come from? Recent proponents of this idea can be traced back to the 2018 documentary “Root Cause,” where an Australian filmmaker ties his fatigue and depression as an adult to a root canal he got as a child. He was supported by modern believers in supposed health risks of root canals, like Dr. Joseph Mercola. However, the cancer claims have a much older history than that.
This idea was first presented by Weston A. Price in the 1900s, and most people who propagate this claim still cite his research. He thought that root canals may lead to widespread illness, and to test his theory, implanted their treated teeth into rabbits. He claimed that these rabbits exhibited illnesses similar to the patients that the teeth came from, including an increased cancer risk.
However, in the 100 years since his studies, no one has been able to replicate the results of his research. Moreover, no further evidence has come to light of a relationship between root canals can cancer. Thus, patients can conclude that Price’s research and any proponents of it are out of touch with modern dentistry. If you need a root canal, there’s no need to fear—they’re safe, effective methods of dealing with a toothache!
About the Author
Dr. Deborah Bishop believes that understanding the latest developments in endodontics allow her to make her care more comfortable, more efficient, and safer. For that reason, she takes the work of expanding her clinical knowledge incredibly seriously. Dr. Bishop received her dental degree from the University of Alabama School of Dentistry and has served in several leadership roles as a part of the American Dental Association.
If you have any questions about root canals, she can be reached at her website or by phone at (256) 882-5161.