Sometimes when a tooth becomes infected, inflamed and painful, you need to see the dentist. To get rid of the infection, you have the option to save the tooth or remove it. So which option is better, the root canal or the dental implant? Let’s look at both options.

Root canal

A root canal is a tiny canal within your tooth that can become infected which can lead to the pulp inside your tooth becoming infected. The root canal procedure involves cleaning out the bacteria and filling the canals. If left untreated the ongoing infection could lead to the loss of the infected teeth. For a restorable tooth, the success rate can be 90% or higher.

Dental implants

A dental implant is a remarkable treatment that can replace a missing or failing tooth. Not only does it restore your complete smile, but can also help your jawbone to heal from the damages of tooth loss. To replace a missing tooth, or a tooth with a hopeless prognosis, a titanium implant is placed into the bone and a fixed crown attached to mimic the lost tooth. The end result should look, feel and perform just like a natural tooth.

Root Canal vs. Dental Implant: which is the best?

The best treatment depends on each person’s particular case. There are many factors to consider, such as bone structure, physical health conditions (conditions such as diabetes, smoking and osteoporosis can reduce the long-term success rate for dental implants), oral health and previous dental work in the same area can all affect the outcome of your procedure.

Some things to consider:

1. A root canal focuses on saving the tooth therefore no tooth needs to be extracted.
2. Because it’s not permanent, the root canal may need to be replaced years later, costing more money.
3. A dental implant removes the damaged tooth and replaces it with a natural looking prosthetic.
4. Dental implants are permanent because they fuse with your natural bone.
5. You cannot get tooth decay with a dental implant.
6. Dental implants have a 98% success rate.
7. Both look natural.

If you don’t know which option is right for you, then schedule a visit in our Tehachapi dental office.  Dr. Sanchez has 45 years’ experience and will advise you on the best solution.