Whether it’s from tooth decay, gum disease, trauma, or another problem, around 178 million people are missing at least one tooth in the United States.1 No matter the cause of the missing tooth, it is essential to find a replacement to maintain the functionality and appearance of your smile. Perhaps the best option to replace an extracted tooth is with a dental implant.
Deciding Between A Root Canal vs Extraction
If you find yourself struggling with an injured, decaying, or infected tooth, it is vital to seek the assistance of a dentist to decide between a root canal treatment or extraction. An extraction is a procedure that encompasses the removal of the entire tooth, while root canal treatment is a process of cleaning out the infected tissue of the tooth.
One study found that dental caries (cavities) and periodontal disease were the leading reasons for a tooth extraction.2 Root canal treatment is less invasive and less risky than a tooth extraction. However, sometimes an extraction offers a better long-term solution for patients in cases of severe damage. If the tooth appears too weak or damaged to support the crown following a root canal, extraction is likely the recommended alternative.
3 Benefit of Dental Implants To Replace A Missing Tooth
If you and your dentist determine that tooth extraction is, in fact, the best fit for your tooth, the next step is to visit a trusted periodontist for a consultation for a dental implant. A periodontist is a dentist specializing in gum disease and dental implants, which can often be found from a referral from your dentist.
While the best choice of tooth replacement can depend on your unique oral health, the number of teeth extracted, the amount of bone in your jawbone, and other factors, one of the leading options that many periodontists recommend first is a dental implant.
Unlike a removable denture or bridge, a dental implant involves a surgical procedure. In this procedure, the periodontist will permanently place a titanium post into the jawbone to hold a crown that looks like your natural teeth. Here are the top 3 advantages of replacing an extracted tooth with a dental implant over other options:
#1: Comfortable and Beautiful Fit
There’s no question that a dental implant is a more comfortable option than other replacements. Dentures do not fit perfectly and have a habit of causing discomfort and even falling out of the mouth while chewing or talking. On the other hand, a healed dental implant feels and appears identical to a natural tooth.
#2: Maintains Jawbone Integrity
After extracting a tooth, not having a tooth root in the jawbone at the extraction site will cause bone loss in the area. Because a dental implant is inserted directly into the jaw, it maintains the original strength and integrity of the jawbone.
#3: Long-Lasting Solution
Dental implants involve surgery and are more expensive upfront, yet their lasting results exceed other tooth replacement options. For example, one study on dental implant success rates found that 98.6% of patient’s implants survived after five years.3
Perfect Dental Health With Empire Dental Care
If you are struggling with a painful tooth, don’t wait to get the oral care you deserve at Empire Dental Care. Dr. Cohen is an expert at diagnosing and will decide if extraction and implant are your best course of treatment.
To learn more about our wide range of dental services, contact us online or call us at 585.671.1650 for your appointment.
Sources:
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25594452/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7178127/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6212375/
