New Survey Reveals 77% of Americans Would Rather Sleep at the Airport Than Have Root Canal Treatment

Sonendo, a leading dental technology company and developer of the GentleWave procedure, a less invasive alternative to traditional root canal therapy, has announced the results of its recent survey, which revealed widespread anxiety and fear surrounding traditional root canal treatment. The national survey gathered responses from patients ages 35 and older, with 60% of respondents having previously undergone a root canal procedure.

According to the findings, more than 67% of respondents either strongly agree or agree with the following statement: “I am terrified of getting a root canal procedure.” If faced with needing to get a root canal procedure, more than 80% of respondents would describe their feelings as anxious or scared. Plus, 77% confirmed that they would rather be forced to sleep at the airport after a cancelled flight than undergo a root canal procedure, and nearly 80% said they would rather give up social media for two weeks than undergo such treatment.

“Being aware of patients’ strong attitudes toward root canal therapy helps us better understand the literal and perceived pain points of traditional treatment,” notes Michael Smith, chief commercial officer of Sonendo. “While we and the endodontic community recognize there are many misconceptions about root canal therapy, that doesn’t change how a swath of the population feels about treatment. It is incumbent on us, alongside the doctors who provide treatment, to help educate patients. With the GentleWave procedure, we’re on a mission to transform this narrative and we will continue to build on our educational efforts.”

According to Smith, the GentleWave procedure redefines standard root canal treatment with a minimally invasive process that preserves tooth structure and promotes pain-free and fast healing. For more information about Sonendo and the GentleWave System, visit sonendo.com.