Do tampons really save lives or not?

I've been using classic pads for years, but that crinkly feeling and discomfort have really gotten to me. I literally feel like there's something there with every movement I make. Some of my friends say that tampons are really comfortable and you don't feel anything, but to be honest, I'm still a bit hesitant. I worry about whether it could cause any damage or if it would get stuck inside.