A root canal (called “endodontic therapy”) is a dental procedure that can save a severely damaged or infected tooth. Like any dental procedure, there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider.

Here, we'll help you understand the disadvantages of root canal therapy while also emphasizing why, in most cases, the benefits significantly outweigh these cons.

Understanding Root Canal Therapy

Before delving into the pros and cons, it's vital to understand what root canal therapy is. Simply put, it involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp within a tooth, then cleaning, disinfecting, and filling the tooth's interior. The goal of the procedure is to save the tooth and eliminate the infection.

The Cons of Root Canal Therapy

Although a root canal is often the best choice for saving a tooth that is severely infected or damaged, there are some disadvantages to be aware of:

• Success Rate: Even a well-done root canal has a success rate of around 90-99% (depending on the study, this number varies). This means there's a slim chance the procedure might not achieve the desired long-term results. Click here to read our guide on the signs and symptoms of a failed root canal.

• Cost & Time: Root canal therapy can be expensive and time-consuming, often requiring more than one visit to the dentist. If you’re wondering exactly how long a root canal will take, we’ve got you covered.

• Weakened Tooth: One often-misunderstood point is that a tooth that needs a root canal is already weakened due to infection or damage, and the procedure could further weaken it, increasing the risk of fracture or breakage.

• Need for Follow-Up Treatment: After a root canal, a tooth usually requires a crown or full-coverage restoration, which adds to the cost and time involved.

• Risk of Re-Infection: There's a slim chance of re-infection, even after a successful root canal. See here for more information on root canal reinfection.

• Alternatives Exist: There are alternatives to root canal therapy, such as implants and bridges, which are more ideal in some scenarios.

• Minor/Moderate Discomfort (occasionally): You may experience jaw or mouth discomfort due to the length of the procedure. For more information on the pain level of root canal treatment, see here.

• Possible Allergic Reactions (very rare): There's a minuscule chance of a bad reaction to the anesthetic or disinfectant used.

The Pros of Root Canal Therapy

Despite the above considerations, the advantages of root canal therapy usually overshadow the cons.

Here's why:

• Tooth Preservation: One of the significant advantages of a root canal is that it allows you to keep your natural tooth. This is often the best option for oral health, as your natural tooth will function better than any artificial alternatives.

• Elimination of Infection: A root canal eliminates the infection and the pain associated with it. This can improve your oral (and often your overall) health, as untreated oral infections can lead to more serious systemic health issues.

• Safety: Root canals have been performed for decades and are considered safe and effective. They are the surest way to save a severely broken-down tooth.

It is essential to remember that the disadvantages of root canal treatments are usually outweighed by the tremendous benefit of saving your natural tooth and maintaining your oral health. As with any medical or dental decision, you should discuss all your options with your dentist to ensure that you're making the best choice for your unique situation.

Signs That a Root Canal Might Be Needed

While it's essential to visit your dentist for an accurate diagnosis, being aware of the following symptoms can alert you to a possible infection that may necessitate a root canal:

• Severe tooth pain, especially spontaneous pain or pain when chewing or applying pressure to the area

• Prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, which continues even after the heat or cold stimulus has been removed

• Discoloration or darkening of the tooth

• Unexplained swelling and tenderness in an isolated area of the gums

• Persistent or recurring pimple on the gums, sometimes filled with pus (this is called a dental abscess)

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately. Prompt attention can increase the chances of saving the tooth and limit the spread of infection.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Understanding what happens during a root canal can help alleviate any anxieties about the procedure. Here's a basic overview of the steps your dentist will follow:

• Anesthesia: Your dentist will first administer local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring you are comfortable throughout the procedure.

• Access: An opening is made through the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.

• Pulp Removal: The infected or dead pulp is removed from the chamber and root canals. The area is then thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

• Filling: The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible (safe & non-toxic) material and sealed with dental cement.

• Restoration: A temporary or permanent filling is placed over the access hole. In most cases, the tooth will later need a crown for protection and to restore its function.

Consultation and Diagnosis

A root canal is not a procedure to be undertaken lightly. Your dentist will conduct an examination and use various diagnostic tools before deciding on a root canal as the best treatment.

• Clinical Examination: Your dentist will check for symptoms such as pain, swelling, and discoloration of the tooth.

• X-rays: X-rays allow your dentist to see the tooth's root and surrounding bone structure, helping identify any signs of infection or damage.

• Pulp Vitality Tests: These tests help determine whether the tooth's pulp is healthy, inflamed, or dead.

Only after a comprehensive evaluation will your dentist recommend a root canal. If the procedure is deemed necessary, rest assured it's because your dentist believes it to be the best option to preserve your tooth and overall oral health.