Should I get a root canal or an implant (early 50s)

Question

One of my teeth (had a filling from cavity before) is in need of a root canal/implant. The problem is a previous root canal several months ago has left me with some trismus. At this stage/age is it better to go with a root canal or simply go straight to an implant?

Megan Shelton, DMD · Answer

Without seeing your radiographs and knowing the periodontal health of the tooth it is hard to definitively give you an answer.  Trismus is usually due to having your mouth open too long during treatment, and can come from any dental procedure.  If you choose to have a root canal see a specialist that is aware of your history and who can hopefully accommodate you by working efficiently and prescribing an anti-inflammatory for healing.  Implants are great for replacing teeth, but if your tooth does not need replaced yet I would go for the root canal and preserve natural dentition.  Consult with your general dentist and they will be able to give you the best option and do a risk benefit analysis for you.  Wish you the best. Smiles, Dr. Shelton

Kourosh Maddahi, DDS · Answer

Hi:In order to give you accurate advice I would need to look at the xray of your tooth.  Depending on the level of the bone and amount of the decay, best option can be determined.Best,Dr. Maddahi

Vicki Borowski, DDS · Answer

Root canals can be a very effective way to salvage a tooth that has deep decay. Trismus after a root canal comes from having your mouth open for an extended period of time. It usually resolves over a period of weeks. Antiinflammatories may speed the process. Implants are the gold standard for tooth replacement but not without their own problems. I suggest visiting with your dentist and sharing your concerns about treatment. The two of you can come up with a plan that works best in your situation.

David Taler, DDS, FAGD, DABOI/ID · Answer

I get this question a lot. It really all  depends on the specifics of the case. Replicating nature is one of the most difficult things we attempt to do in prosthetics. Until we are able to re-grow and "implant" teeth from stem cells, we are simply trying to replace what you already have. While we have dramatically improved at this art and science over the past 50 years it is by no means perfect.
 As a general rule, if the bone around the tooth is good and the tooth itself is strong and  has enough tooth structure to support a crown often times a root canal is better. 
 If the tooth or bone are compromised, the best long-term solution is typically a dental implant.

Should I get a root canal or an implant (early 50s)

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