Tooth Saving Tips

With the advancement of health treatments, patients have more options on how to treat their teeth. It’s important to understand your choices and their impact on your future dental health. It’s always best to save your natural tooth. There are a few advantages to saving a tooth rather than having it extracted; such as efficient chewing and the cost of ongoing dental work of an implant.

Tips for Saving Your Natural Teeth:

1. If given the choice between root canal treatment or tooth extraction, always choose root canal treatment. There isn’t a denture, implant or bridge that looks, feels and functions as well as a natural tooth. Never choose an extraction because you think it will cost less. When a natural tooth is extracted, it must be replaced with an artificial tooth to prevent future dental problems; such as your teeth from shifting. The cost of a denture, implant or bridge in addition to the cost of the extraction is often higher than the cost of an endodontic procedure. Most dental plans cover endodontic treatment, in addition, financing is available.
2. If your dentist recommends a tooth extraction, ask whether a root canal treatment is an option. Never choose an extraction because you think it will be less painful than a root canal treatment. Modern techniques and effective anesthesia make root canal treatment virtually painless and in most cases, discomfort is generally more painful with an extraction than a root canal.
3. Have an Endodontist perform the root canal treatment. Endodontists are dentists who specialize in saving teeth and have at least two years of advanced training in root canal procedures, which makes them efficient at performing such treatments. Never choose an extraction because you think it will be faster. Endodontic treatments generally require one to two visits but the extraction and denture, implant or bridge option will take multiple appointments.

Your doctor referred you to us to receive endodontic surgical care.  We consider it our privilege to serve you. However, you do not need a referral to seek Dr. Greene’s uniquely qualified services.

Dr. Greene is a specialist member of the American Association of Endodontists and looks forward to providing you with the highest standard of care. If you would like additional information or to schedule your consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (765) 649-1277 or click here to email.