There’s a nasty rumor that 97 percent of people with terminal cancer have had a root canal, suggesting that root canals and cancer are linked. Of course, with any percentage approaching 100, it’s crucial to take a closer look at where the rumor started and find scientific evidence to support the claim. Unfortunately, this type of scaremongering is very easy to share and it is easy to spread false information. Let’s hope no one has put off a root canal for fear of cancer (or any other reason). Time to get the dental stuff straight.

There is no mention of a link between root canals and cancer in any credible peer-reviewed journal. The origin of this claim comes from a doctor who appears regularly on Quack Watch, who does not believe in vaccines or fluoride, and who makes a living selling nutritional supplements that promise to prevent cancer. Of course, this “root canal causes cancer” type of clickbait was too much for the media to resist, so it’s no wonder it spreads like plaque in a sugar-laden mouth.

a numbers game

There is a correlation problem when making general statements. 97 percent of people with terminal cancer have had a root canal? Perhaps, since it is a very common procedure. At least 97 percent of those people have also probably driven a car, drunk milk, or watched television in their lifetime. When you take a very common occurrence, like a root canal, and try to use it as the basis for a terminal illness without solid scientific evidence, that’s instilling fear.

The idea that these dental procedures cause cancer first emerged in the 1920s, when there was obviously a lack of information, research, and evidence. Dentistry has come a long way in a century! Current procedures include digital radiography, isolation of teeth with rubber dams, and use of YAG lasers for optimal cleaning. In a contemporary root canal, any bacteria or infection can be completely eliminated, and even if it is not, the bacteria in the dental pulp will not enter the bloodstream and cause terminal cancer. It just doesn’t work that way.

Why “dead tissue” is not fatal

There are also rumors that “dead tissue” (disinfected root canals) can be lethal, but that’s simply not true. The human body can and does thrive even on dead tissue, just take a look at your hair and nails. Shaving your head and keeping your fingernails short to minimize dead tissue will not prevent cancer any more than avoiding a visit to the dentist.

Proponents of the “root canal-less movement” encourage tooth extraction and implants rather than a simple root canal. The vast majority of reputable dentists and endodontists agree that preserving natural teeth is always preferable to extractions, which should be the last resort. Also, extractions/implants are much more expensive, uncomfortable and have a longer recovery time.

If you really want to minimize your cancer risks, follow the best practices established by reputable experts. Wear SPF, eat whole foods with minimal chemicals, sip green tea, and stick to your annual dental checkups. In fact, regular dental checkups have been shown time and time again to reduce the chance of disease and infection in all parts of the body, and it’s far less invasive than pulling teeth when a cavity gets out of control.