Dental Implants Compared to Root Canals

Dental implants are used to replace lost teeth, so they function like natural teeth. Root canals are dental procedures to repair the roots of natural teeth that have infected pulp.

Method

• A dental implant replaces an extracted tooth. It requires the insertion of a metal post into the jaw area to hold a crown. A root canal involves removal of infected pulp, cleaning of canals and the tip of the root. The dentist disinfects the canal and fills it with antibacterial material or a temporary filling, before sealing the tooth.

Time

• Root canals can usually be completed with one or two sessions. When a temporary filling is used, another visit may be necessary for a permanent restoration such as filling or crown. In most dental implant procedures, the metal post needs to fuse with the bone before a crown can be placed on it. This can take a few months.

Cost

• Dental implants are more expensive. Basic implants can range from $1,250 to $3,000. The cost increases significantly If bone graft or gum restoration is needed. The single root canal procedure usually ranges from $350 to $600. A procedure with three or more canals can range from $500 to $860, as of 2010.