Ladera Ranch dental questions: Is an extraction and implant better than a root canal procedure?

There is no pain quite like that of a toothache. When it happens, you just want it to stop, as quickly as possible – and not come back. Unfortunately, if the dental pulp is injured, infected, or inflamed, the pain is not likely to subside. Pulp contains nerves along with other soft tissues in hollow areas in the center of the tooth. Once damaged, it can cause chronic or recurrent toothaches, sensitivity, abscesses, and other painful problems, which continue until the pulp is removed. There are two ways of accomplishing that. The pulp can be removed from inside of the tooth (root canal therapy) or the entire tooth can be removed (extraction).

Which option is better? That depends on the situation. Both dental implants and root canal treatments have a success rate over 95 percent, and both procedures are typically described as comfortable. Your dentist will examine the tooth in question, and evaluate your overall oral health, before recommending the best solution for your specific situation.

Saving natural teeth

Implants come closer to replicating the anatomy, appearance, and functionality of a tooth than any other restorative option available. However, there is no match for what nature gave you. If you tooth has a good prognosis for longevity, a root canal procedure is preferable. It can be completed more quickly than extraction and implants. With our CAD/CAM technology, we can even restore the tooth with a crown during the same appointment as the root canal treatment. Implants, on the other hand, usually take several months to complete. Even more importantly, when all is said and done, you will still have your own, real, natural tooth – and you will have an excellent chance of keeping that tooth for life.

When extraction is a better option

Unfortunately, not all teeth are savable. Extensive damage or decay can destroy so much of the tooth structure that it is no longer viable, and severely loose teeth usually can't be stabilized, especially if there is active periodontal disease. Drs. Alex and Nina Basti take pride in providing high quality, long-lasting dental solutions. They will not recommend restoring your tooth if it is in too bad of condition to last. In this case, a bridge or denture may be an option, but neither of these can restore your appearance, oral health, and ability to eat quite like dental implants.

Call our office at 949-427-2096 and arrange a consultation to learn more about your best options for a healthy, dazzling smile for life. We are conveniently located in Mission Viejo, just a short drive from Ladera Ranch.