Should I Get a Root Canal or an Extraction and Implant?
When deciding between a root canal and an extraction followed by an implant, saving your natural tooth through root canal therapy is almost always the recommended long-term choice.
While an extraction might seem more affordable initially, it often leads to higher costs and complications over time. Here is how the two options compare according to Smilo Family Dental:
- Long-Term Value: Saving the natural tooth preserves your jawbone health, maintains proper bite alignment, and keeps adjacent teeth from shifting.
- Cost Efficiency: Although extraction is a quick fix, the empty space it leaves often requires a bridge, partial denture, or dental implant. When comparing the cost of a root canal versus the cost of an extraction plus a replacement, the root canal and crown are usually more economical over several years.
- Health Benefits: A root canal removes deep infection and stops it from spreading to other teeth or the jawbone, whereas extraction requires further restorative work to restore chewing function.
- Insurance Coverage: Many dental insurance plans in Ontario cover between 50% and 80% of root canal therapy, which can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Ultimately, a root-canaled tooth protected by a crown can last a lifetime with proper care. We recommend a personalized exam to determine the complexity of your specific case and provide a custom quote.
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