Dental Implants vs Root Canal: What Are the Differences?

If a tooth infection is left untreated, you may have to remove the tooth. A root canal is a common procedure done on infected teeth. It can be quite expensive to have root canal surgery, however. If you are searching for an alternative, dental implants may be suitable.

Dental implants are permanent fixtures placed in your mouth to support a tooth. A root canal removes the infected material from your tooth. It is important to get the treatment you need to keep your teeth healthy and working.

Continue reading for a guide to dental implants vs. root canal treatment. You should know the differences to make an informed decision.

Dental Implant Treatment

Dental implants are a type of artificial tooth that replace missing teeth. They are made of titanium and placed into the jawbone using a special surgical procedure. The implants can last up to 10 years; you can replace them if they become damaged or if you want a new implant.

Dental implants are the most durable type of artificial tooth. They are often preferred over other artificial teeth because they are less likely to become loose or need replacement. Click here to learn more about the best dental implant procedures.

Root Canal Treatment

A root canal is a surgical procedure that helps remove a tooth’s infected or malignant root. A root canal may be necessary if the tooth becomes infected, if there is damage to the root, or if the tooth is in an extreme condition.

There are many types of root canals, and they can be performed with various techniques. The most common technique is an endodontic tube passed through the tooth and into the roots.

This tube is then cleaned and filled with a numbing agent before sealing off with a cement plug. If you have an implantable dental crown or bridge, your dentist may also need to perform a root canal on one or more of its anchors.

Differences Between Dental Implants vs Root Canal Treatment

Dental implants and root canals are two common treatments for teeth that need restoration or replacement. Here’s a look at the key benefits of each:

Procedure

A dental implant is a more modern treatment option than a root canal. A metal rod is inserted into the jawbone and secured with dental cement in a dental implant. This replaces the need for a root canal, which can be expensive and cause pain and infection. Dental implants are also less likely to fail than root canals.

Durability

The main benefit of dental implants is that they are more durable than teeth replaced with a root canal. Dental implants can last up to 10 years, while root canals typically only last about 3-5 years. Dental implants also require less maintenance than teeth replaced with a root canal.

Cost

A dental implant is a more expensive option than a root canal. A dental implant costs $2,000-3,000 more than a root canal, and the recovery time is longer. However, a dental implant may last up to 10 years, while a root canal may only last 3-5 years.
Additionally, a root canal often requires multiple visits over months or even years in order to complete the procedure, while an implant can be completed in one visit.

The Bottom Line

When comparing dental implants vs root canal treatment, implants are a better option for those who are looking for long-term dental solutions. They offer greater stability and durability than root canals and are less likely to require replacement in the future. If you are considering dental implants, speak to your dentist about your options.

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