I’m probably done with root canals for good. I had one done at 20, and within a decade, it was nothing but trouble. They attempted a retreat and even an apicoectomy, but nothing stuck. The infection just kept coming back until the tooth was eventually pulled. Since getting an implant to replace it, I’ve had zero problems. Looking back, I wish I’d skipped the root canal entirely. My sister went through the same ordeal. For me, the implant has been a far superior experience. Attempting to preserve the natural tooth was just a waste of money and a source of constant pain.
Think of it like a severe leg infection: you could try to clear the infection to save the limb, or just amputate and use a prosthetic. Most patients and doctors would prefer to try saving the leg first. Just like in your case, both options—saving the natural part or replacing it—carry risks of further infection or complications.
1 Like
Honestly, following that logic, you might as well just pull the tooth the next time you get a minor cavity. Fillings can fail and decay can start again around them, which eventually leads to needing a root canal anyway, and then…
2 Likes
The majority of patients prefer to hold onto their natural teeth, and a root canal is the only way to do that. Believe me, I’d be happy to never perform another endodontic treatment again.
Let’s see how that implant is doing in a decade. There’s a good chance you’ll be dealing with peri-implant mucositis or even full-blown periodontitis by then. What’s the plan for when that happens?
Who performed the first root canal—was it a general practitioner? Also, what specialist handled the implant procedure?