“I have a infected tooth, should I do a root canal or an implant?”

Introduction

When faced with a dental problem, people usually turn to their dentists for a solution. Depending on the severity of the problem, dentists might recommend either an extraction and implant, or a root canal treatment. In this article, we’ll briefly compare the two procedures, focusing on the costs, life span and the discomfort of the procedures in Singapore.

Extraction and Implant vs Root Canal Treatment explained

An extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket. This procedure is usually performed when a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be saved with a filling or other restorative work. An implant is then placed in the socket where the tooth was extracted, to support an artificial tooth.

A root canal treatment, on the other hand, is a procedure to save a damaged tooth that has been infected or inflamed. During the procedure, the dentist removes the damaged and infected tissue from the inside of the tooth and replaces it with a filling material. The goal of the procedure is to remove the source of the pain and to prevent further damage.

Cost Comparison in Singapore

One of the biggest factors to consider when choosing between an extraction and implant or a root canal treatment is the cost. In Singapore, the cost of an extraction and implant can range from $2200-$7000 before GST ($2250 nett, $1250 medisave claimable with Smileplus dental), depending on the complexity of the procedure. On the other hand, a root canal treatment usually costs around $600 to $2,000.

Life Span Comparison

Another important factor to consider is the life span of the two procedures. A dental implant is a permanent solution and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance, 15 years and above with a 95-98% success rate. On the other hand, a root canal treated tooth has a life span of around 10 to 15 years, after which it may need to be treated again or replaced, with a 80-90% success rate

It’s important to keep in mind that a root canal treatment can only save a tooth that has not been too damaged, so if the damage is too severe, an extraction and implant might be the preferred option.

Discomfort Comparison

One of the biggest concerns people have when undergoing any dental procedure is the discomfort they might experience. Both an extraction and implant and a root canal treatment can cause some discomfort, but they are usually well-tolerated by patients.

An extraction can be painful, especially if the tooth is difficult to remove. However, the pain can be managed with pain medication and most patients are able to return to normal activities within a few days.

A root canal treatment is usually performed under local anesthesia and is not painful, just moderately uncomfortable as the procedure is complex. Most patients report only mild discomfort after the procedure, which can be managed with pain medication.

Conclusion

Choosing between an extraction and implant or a root canal treatment is a decision that should be made with the help of a dentist. Both procedures have their pros and cons, and the best option will depend on the severity of the problem and the patient’s individual needs.

In Singapore, the cost of an extraction and implant is comparable to a root canal treatment, but the implant is a permanent solution. A root canal treated tooth has a shorter life span, but is usually a more cost-effective option. Both procedures can cause some discomfort, but the level of discomfort is usually well-tolerated by patients.