Root canal vs dental implant: Which is best for you?
Explore significant differences between root canals and dental implants, pros and cons, which option suits your needs.
Dental health can feel overwhelming, especially with procedures like root canals or dental implants. However, understanding these options helps you make informed choices about your oral care.
If you're facing an infected tooth, a root canal offers a valuable solution. And if you're looking for a permanent fix for a missing tooth due to infection, you may consider dental implants. While they serve similar purposes, the right choice depends on your individual needs and dental goals.
At Aspen Dental, we’re here to help you demystify dental care and empower you to make informed choices about your oral health. We will guide you through the process, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable every step of the way.
What is a root canal?
A root canal procedure is designed to save your natural tooth. It involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the root canals, and sealing them up. This procedure is recommended when the tooth is still strong enough to be saved.
Root canals are among the most common dental procedures, designed to save a tooth with damage to the nerve from infection or dental abscess, trauma or tooth decay. Here's what the procedure looks like in a nutshell:
1. Removing pulp: The dentist removes the damaged or infected tissue inside the tooth.
2. Shaping the canal: The tooth is thoroughly cleaned to eliminate bacteria and debris.
3. Sealing the tooth: The cleaned space is sealed to prevent future infections.
Root canal benefits
A root canal can save your natural tooth, keeping your jaw structure intact and your smile aligned. The procedure is quick and comfortable thanks to modern sedation, so you’ll feel minimal discomfort.
Plus, it’s a more affordable option compared to dental implants, offering effective relief from tooth pain.
Benefits of a root canal:
Preserves natural tooth
Maintains jaw structure
Quick and comfortable
More affordable short-term
Relief from tooth pain
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. The process involves placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts like a replacement root.
After the area heals, a crown is added to the implant, making it look and work like a natural tooth. Implants are perfect for anyone who has lost a tooth or needs one removed and wants a lasting solution.
Dental implants are often seen as the best option for tooth replacement because they are strong, effective and most long-lasting. The titanium post is securely placed in the jawbone and, once it fuses with the bone, a custom crown is put on it to look like a real tooth.
One of the biggest advantages of dental implants is their durability. With the right care and maintenance, they can last a lifetime, making them a smart and worthwhile investment over time.
Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, the benefits of dental implants don’t require changing nearby teeth, which helps keep your natural tooth structure intact.
They also provide great stability, allowing you to eat, speak and smile without worrying about them slipping. Although individual results may vary, the reported success rate of dental implants is very high, up to 98%.
Implant benefits
Dental implants are a fantastic solution for replacing infected or severely damaged teeth that cannot be saved by other methods. Here’s why they stand out:
Advantages of dental implants:
Made to last a lifetime
Natural look and feel
Normal chewing and speaking
Promotes jaw health
No alteration to other teeth
High success rate
No risk of cavities to that tooth
Potential implant limitations
Dental implants come with some downsides. They require surgery, which has risks like infection or nerve damage. The process can take several months for the bone to fuse with the implant. They can also be expensive and might not be fully covered by insurance. Additionally, patients need enough bone mass for the implant, which can be a problem for some.
Despite the downsides, dental implants are the longest lasting, most secure and beneficial tooth replacement solution. So, don’t let these limitations deter you. Aspen Dental is here for you every step of the way as the leading expert in dental implants. Plus, we make implants affordable through several financing options. Learn more about affording dental implants here.
Dental implant vs root canal: main differences
The differences between a root canal and a dental implant depends on several factors, including the condition of the tooth, overall dental health, and personal preferences. Understanding the root canal vs implant pros and cons can help you and your dentist determine which one is right for you. Here’s a simple breakdown of the key differences:
Effectiveness
Both treatments work well. Root canals save infected teeth, while implants replace missing ones. Which option is best often depends on how healthy your remaining tooth and gums are.
Longevity
Dental implants may have a longer life expectancy than root canals, and may last for life if cared for properly. Root canals can last many years but might need more treatment later if issues come up.
Procedure
Root canals are less invasive and typically done in one visit with quicker healing. Implants require surgery and time for the bone to heal, extending the overall treatment time.
Cost
Root canals usually cost less upfront than implants, but implants may be a better long-term investment since they last longer and require less maintenance. For detailed costs, check Aspen Dental’s financing and insurance options and learn how we assist patients like you with financing solutions.
Choosing a root canal vs dental implant
Choosing between a root canal and a dental implant is something your dentist will prescribe to you based on the health of your teeth, the severity of infection and your long-term dental goals.
Your Aspen Dental care team will assess your tooth's condition and recommend the right procedure or refer you to a specialist if necessary. This ensures you get the best care for your situation.
Root canal vs dental implant FAQs
Is the root removed for an implant?
Yes, in a dental implant procedure, the root of the missing tooth is replaced with a titanium post that acts as an artificial root.
What hurts more, a root canal or a dental implant?
Both procedures can cause some discomfort, but modern anesthesia helps keep pain to a minimum. Any pain afterward can usually be managed with medication.
Learn more about root canal pain here and dental implant pain here.
What is a better option than a root canal?
It depends on how damaged the tooth is. If a tooth can't be saved with a root canal, an implant might be a better, longer-lasting choice.
Save your smile with Aspen Dental
The differences between a root canal and an implant can significantly impact your dental health and quality of life. By weighing the pros and cons, understanding the differences and working with your Aspen Dental care team, you can choose the path that best aligns with your oral care goals.
Schedule an appointment at your local Aspen Dental office today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
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