If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, it’s difficult to know which treatment is best for your situation. A root canal treatment and dental implants are both options for treating teeth with severe decay or infection.
Each option is suitable for different oral health conditions. Your dentist will examine your teeth and jaw to help you decide which one is right for you. Here is what else to expect when getting a root canal versus a dental implant.
Benefits of a Root Canal
For people who have deep decay that can cause an infection of the pulp chamber, a root canal treatment may be the best solution because it can help relieve discomfort and prevent further damage to your tooth. There are other benefits that come with getting a root canal.
You Save Your Natural Tooth
A root canal treatment removes the nerve and decay from within the tooth, preserving the external tooth structure and strengthening the interior with natural latex called gutta percha. Though you may need a dental crown fitted to protect the tooth, you will still have the original tooth structure.
Less Time in the Dental Chair
A root canal treatment usually takes about one to two visits to the dentist. This takes less time than getting a dental implant that requires months of recovery between treatment stages while your mouth heals.
Easier Recovery
The root canal treatment process has a shorter recovery time that involves following post-op instructions from your dentist, such as a soft food diet and taking medication if you experience signs of inflammation and swelling. This does not require you to wait for gums or bone tissue to heal.
Benefits of a Dental Implant
A dental implant may be your best option if your tooth is so severely damaged that it needs to be removed. For a successful implant procedure, you must have enough jawbone left to support a dental implant and commit to long-term recovery. Here are more reasons to consider a dental implant.
Give You a Natural-Looking Smile
Dental implants provide a tooth replacement that matches your natural teeth. A crown is attached to the implant post via a small connector called an abutment. Crowns can be made from porcelain, ceramic, or composite, but porcelain offers the most natural results.
Dental Implants Function Like Natural Teeth
When you have dental implants, you can chew and speak without difficulty. Implants are embedded into the jawbone as an anchor for your artificial tooth and mimic a tooth root. This secure foundation supports your jaw health and enhances chewing and speaking functionality.
Dental Implants Are Permanent
Dental implants are considered a permanent tooth replacement. Depending on how well you take care of your teeth, they have a high success rate; the implant post can last a lifetime, while the crown may need to be replaced after 25 years, depending on the material used.
Dental Implants vs. Root Canals: What to Choose
If you suffer from severe tooth decay, book an appointment with the team at Steger Smiles. Our experienced dentists will assess your oral health and determine the best course of action to restore your smile.