Root Canal Alternatives

Did you know that your teeth are not all enamel? Although the enamel is the only visible part of the tooth, teeth consist of many tissue layers that give them shape and the ability to perform daily functions. Underneath the enamel (the white, hard, protective surface of the teeth) are the:

• Dentin, calcified tissue that reinforces the structure of the tooth
• Pulp Chamber, which houses nerve endings and blood vessels

Unfortunately, the tooth’s innermost layer (pulp) can become decayed, inflamed, or infected for many reasons. When this happens, many conventional dentists turn to root canal therapy in an attempt to repair teeth, as a last resort before extraction.

Conventional Root Canal Procedure

Conventional root canal treatment aims to preserve the natural tooth by removing pulp and sterilizing in the tooth’s inner chamber. Once the pulp is removed, the pulp chamber is filled and resealed to restore durability, strength, and to keep the tooth from breaking. Once the pulp chamber is resealed, a crown restores the tooth’s structure and comfortable function.

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for some bad bacteria to remain in the tooth after root canal therapy, though many patients are asymptomatic afterward. Because dentin is made up of small tubules, it is virtually impossible to disinfect the area completely. For this reason, root canals pose a potential risk for future problems.

The Delayed Dangers of a Root Canal

Sadly, the central deficit of root canals is that they ignore the underlying culprit of extensive decay: bacteria. When harmful oral bacteria take residence in the body, the remnants of infection easily enter the bloodstream and evoke systemic health problems. These symptoms of a failed root canal may take years to appear.

On top of partially addressing the problems that an infected tooth can cause, root canals can lead to possible complications, such as:

• Inflammation: Root canaled teeth become a hideaway for harmful bacteria to live and multiply. They can then spread to other parts of the mouth and body, causing a systemic inflammatory response. As a result, individuals may suffer from chronic fatigue, joint pain, skin problems, asthma, and more.
• Overactive immune response: Conventional dentists cannot clear out all of the dead tissue during a root canal, and the immune system does not care for necrotic tissue. Accessory canals create a haven for bacteria that feed on dead dental tissue,which supports bacterial reproduction and onset of disease.
• Re-infection: Although some dentists suggest that root canals preserve the tooth for years, the truth is that the tooth can be re-infected at any moment. If the infection is not addressed as soon as possible, it will damage the tooth beyond repair. Should the infection worsen, it not only destroys the tooth but can cause reinfection in the jaw bone, which is more damaging.
• Loss of jaw bone tissue: An infected root canal can result in infection of the jaw bone. This can lead to dental cavitation and bone loss in the jaw. These unresolved infections in the jaw can influence the development of more dental issues, as well as further systemic health issues.