Is a root canal scarier than spiders?

2017 01 25 17 32 55 822 Endodontics Root Canal 400

How much do you fear a root canal? A majority of adults are more afraid of this procedure than spiders, according to a survey from the American Association of Endodontists (AAE).

The organization this month polled more than 1,000 adults and found a distinct preference for snakes and sharks as well.

The survey found the following results when respondents were asked about undergoing a root canal or doing another activity:

  • 57% of respondents would rather spend one hour in a room with 10 spiders.
  • 54% would rather sing the national anthem at a sport game.
  • 53% would rather have a snake in their lap for 15 minutes.
  • 41% would rather go swimming with sharks.

Fear of root canals was greatest among young people (73%) between ages 18 and 24, with 71% of them preferring to run a marathon. In addition, more women (65%) were afraid of root canals, compared with men (53%).

"The reality is there's nothing to be afraid of when it comes to root canals," said AAE President Keith Krell, DDS, in a statement. "As pain management experts skilled in advanced dental technology and anesthetics, endodontists can deliver a virtually painless procedure."

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