“What are the disadvantages of root canal?”

Root canal therapy is a procedure to remove damaged or dead pulp. After the pulp chamber and root canal are cleaned out and reshaped, the canal is filled with a rubber-like substance called gutta percha to prevent recontamination, and the tooth is permanently sealed. Treatment usually involves one to three appointments. After cleaning and reshaping, the dentist may seal the tooth with a temporary crown, leave it open to drain or fill the canals, depending on the tooth’s condition. A topical medication also may be applied in the area to fight bacteria. Temporary fillings will be removed on subsequent visits. If the tooth is still weak after the pulp chamber and canal are filled, a metal post or fiber-reinforced resin post may be used to reinforce the tooth. Finally, the area is permanently sealed, and usually, a gold, porcelain-fused-to-metal or ceramic crown is placed over the tooth to reinforce its structure and improve its appearance. Tissue inflammation in the area may cause some discomfort. This usually can be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers. Aftercare includes maintaining regular visits with your dentist, brushing and flossing your teeth and avoiding chewing hard foods with the treated tooth. On rare occasions, new infections may occur. This happens for a variety of reasons, including an undetected crack in the root of the tooth, a defective restoration or the break-down of an inner sealing material. In these cases, additional follow-up and treatment may be necessary. The only alternative to root canal therapy is extraction of the infected tooth. This can eventually cause the surrounding teeth to move, which may result in a bad bite that ultimately requires an implant or bridge. It’s always best to keep your original tooth if possible, and root canal therapy allows you to do so.

As long as the tooth is not actively infected, root canal treatment should not be painful. The only disadvantages are that the tooth becomes brittle and can crack if a crown is not put on the tooth after root canal. Also, root canal treatment is not 100% successful so you may end up losing the tooth even if the root canal is done well.

Root canal is usually not painful if enough anesthesia is provided. Some soreness is expected afterwards but can be controlled with over the counter pain medication.

A tooth that can be saved with root canal treatment is always better than getting an implant.