This question has recently become more and more popular as materials, techniques, and success rates continue to improve. Root canal treatment is needed when the nerve and blood supply of a tooth becomes irreversibly damaged. This is usually caused by bacteria (large cavity), but may also be caused by trauma or tooth fractures. An implant is a “screw” that goes into the bone with a crown attached (cemented or screwed). Implants are the treatment of choice for missing teeth. Both procedures have greater than a 90% success rate, offer great esthetics, function normally, and have mild post-operative discomfort.
When a tooth is irreversibly infected, two options exist: 1) Save the tooth with a root canal, or 2) extract the tooth and place an implant, if desired.
So which is better? Since some root canals fail, should I just go ahead and get the implant? Or, why pay more money for an implant if I can save my tooth?
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Tags: Dr. Tom Dudney, Dr. Trent Buchanan, Greystone Smile Design