06 Mar Root Canal vs. Dental Implants: Which One Should You Choose? Find Out Now!
As a specialist implant surgeon, I am often asked about the pros and cons of root canal treatments and dental implants. Both procedures can be effective solutions for treating dental infections but it’s important to understand their differences and which one is best suited for your specific needs.
Root Canal Treatments
Root canal treatments are commonly used to treat a tooth that has become infected or decayed. During the procedure, the infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth is removed and replaced with a filling material. This helps to save the tooth and prevent further damage or infection. (See our articles on risks/benefits of root canal treatments as well as costs).
One of the main advantages of root canal treatments is that they can save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted. They are also less invasive than dental implant procedures, require less recovery time, and can be less expensive.
However, root canal treatments are not always effective in saving the tooth but in the hands of a root canal specialist (endodontist), you should get a 90% success rate if there is an adequate amount of tooth above the gum and if there are no significant cracks of the tooth roots. In addition, a tooth that has undergone a root canal treatment may become more fragile over time and may require a crown afterwards to keep it strong.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a more permanent solution for missing teeth. During the procedure, a titanium post is implanted into the jawbone to act as the root of the tooth. A crown is then attached to the post, creating a natural-looking replacement tooth. See our articles on costs of dental implants and well as benefits/risks).
One of the main advantages of dental implants is that they are a long-lasting solution that can look and feel like a natural tooth. They can also improve speech and make it easier to eat and chew. Additionally, dental implants can help to prevent bone loss in the jaw and maintain the structural integrity of the surrounding teeth.
However, dental implant procedures are more invasive and require a longer recovery time than root canal treatments. They can also be more expensive and may not be covered by insurance.
Which One is Right for You?
When deciding between root canal treatments and dental implants, it’s important to consider your individual needs and the specific dental issue you are dealing with. If you have a tooth that can be saved, a root canal treatment may be the best option.
Over the years, I have seen many patients who have struggled with the decision between root canal treatments and dental implants. Two particular patients come to mind and I created two video blogs. They both had exactly the same problem but one choose the root canal treatment and the other chose the dental implant. Please watch both videos to get more information about all the various considerations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both root canal treatments and dental implants can be effective solutions for different dental issues. It’s important to understand their differences and which one is best suited for your specific needs. If you have any questions/comments OR want to be kept informed of future blogs, please complete the form below and one of the team will be in touch with you by the next working day
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Here are some frequently asked questions.
1. What is a root canal treatment?
A root canal treatment is a dental procedure that involves removing the infected or damaged pulp inside a tooth and replacing it with a filling material to save the tooth from extraction.
2. What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a more permanent solution for missing teeth, where a titanium post is implanted into the jawbone to act as the root of the tooth, and a crown is attached to the post, creating a natural-looking replacement tooth.
3. Are root canal treatments painful?
Root canal treatments are typically performed under local anaesthesia, so the patient does not feel any pain during the procedure. However, some patients may experience discomfort or sensitivity in the treated tooth after the procedure.
4. Are dental implants expensive?
Dental implants can be more expensive than other dental procedures, but they are a long-lasting solution that can look and feel like a natural tooth. The cost of dental implants can vary depending on the individual case and the location of the dental practice.
5. How long does it take to recover from a root canal treatment?
Recovery time from a root canal treatment can vary depending on the individual case, but most patients can return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity in the treated tooth for a few days.
6. Can I eat normally after a dental implant procedure?
It is recommended that patients stick to a soft diet for the first few days after a dental implant procedure to allow the implant to heal properly. After the initial healing period, patients can gradually return to their normal diet.
