Root canals have become ubiquitous—almost 60 million are performed each year in the United States. “You need a root canal‟ is now almost as common as hearing “you need a filling.” It is the only treatment protocol available to retain a tooth that is diseased. Yet, just how safe are root canals? And, what is the science behind there being a non-toxic alternative to tooth extractions?

I sat down with Dr. Rouzita Rashtian to talk about what a root canal treatment involves, why you might end up needing one, and alternative treatment options.