Saving a natural tooth that has a damaged nerve via endodontic treatment and a proper permanent filling, should always be the first choice—both for oral health and cosmetic reasons. There are many advantages to saving your natural tooth, including:
- efficient chewing
- normal biting force, so you can continue to eat your favorite foods
- maintains a natural appearance
- limits the need for more costly, ongoing dental work
Tips for Saving Your Teeth
- If you are given a choice between root canal treatment or tooth extraction, choosing root canal treatment, where practical, is the most conservative, predictable, and cost-efficient decision you can make. Dentistry has yet to produce a denture, bridge, or implant that looks, feels, and functions as well as a natural tooth.
- If your dentist recommends tooth extraction, ask whether root canal treatment is an option.
- If your dentist says that an endodontic procedure is not an option, ask why, and request a referral to an endodontist. Endodontists are dentists who specialize in saving teeth and have at least two years of advanced training in root canal procedures. They are experts at diagnosing and relieving tooth pain and use advanced equipment to treat patients quickly and comfortably. Your dentist probably has partnerships with endodontists in your area already.
Reasons to Avoid Extraction
Cost Concerns
Never choose extraction because you think it will be cheaper. In most cases, other than third molar removal, the extracted tooth must be replaced with an artificial tooth to prevent other teeth from shifting, and to prevent future dental problems. The cost of a denture, bridge, or implant, plus the extraction, often is higher than the cost of an endodontic procedure that would save the tooth for years to come. Most dental insurance plans cover endodontic treatment.
Concerns About the Procedure
Never choose extraction because you think root canal treatment will be painful. Modern techniques and effective anesthesia make root canal treatment virtually painless. Most patients who have been treated by Dr. Rhome have stated “it was easier than having a filling done.”
Recovery Time
When possible, avoid choosing extraction because you think it will be quicker. Endodontic treatments generally require one to two visits lasting less than an hour each. An extraction requires one visit, but the denture, bridge, or implant will require several additional visits with your dentist. Discuss your choices with your general dentist and Dr. Rhome, prior to any invasive treatment.
Contact Your Philadelphia Endodontist
If you have been referred to our office, your dentist has shown their concern that you receive the finest endodontic care possible. Our top priority is to help you save your teeth in an environment of professionalism and clinical excellence. We hope to exceed your expectations. If you have any questions or if you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rhome, please give us a call at 215-735-711. We look forward to helping you.