If you are considering Endodontic therapy for a damaged tooth, you’ve probably had to ask yourself the following question: Should you save a tooth or replace it with an artificial one when damage occurs?

At James A. Penney, III, DDS, PA Endodontics we are a little biased. We have spent years restoring natural smiles and watching patients successfully recover from severe tooth damage. Saving damaged teeth and assisting patients in recovery after mouth trauma is our specialty.

In our opinion, it’s always better to try and save a tooth.

Should You Save a Tooth? When Endodontic Treatment Is the Better Option

Natural is healthier.

Although dental technology is improving, research shows that a natural tooth is better for your overall health than an artificial one.

An artificial tooth or bridge has a higher chance of affecting your overall health over time. After having a tooth replaced there could be sensitivity problems. Some patients report having to avoid certain foods.

Endodontically treated teeth also have less chance of becoming infected or causing pain. We often help patients diagnose and cure chronic tooth pain, without having to replace the tooth. A endodontic treatment involves replacing the soft tissue, or pulp inside your tooth. For all practical purposes there is no difference between a natural tooth and a tooth that has been endodontically treated.

This is why dentists often recommend saving a tooth instead of extraction whenever the structure can be preserved. When patients ask if a cracked tooth can be saved, preserving the natural tooth is almost always healthier than replacing it with an artificial option.

More cost efficient.

In most cases, having endodontic therapy is more cost efficient than replacing the tooth. There are many factors we consider to help determine the cost of your endodontic therapy. The two main factors we consider are:

• the severity of damage to your tooth and
• where the damaged tooth is located.

Replacing a tooth, in most cases, is much more expensive. The procedure involves having the tooth extracted and replaced with an artificial tooth. What about bridges? Having a bridge implanted, in many cases, is also much more time consuming. Over time it can cause damage to the surrounding area.

With a healthy, natural tooth, there is less chance of dental problems down the road. When patients compare saving a tooth vs extraction, endodontic treatment is often the more affordable and conservative option.

Less time consuming.

Endodontic treatments are characterized by advanced dental technology and minimal follow-up treatments. A common endodontic therapy treatment will only take one to three visits to our office. James A. Penney, III, DDS, PA Endodontics is conveniently located at 13239 Cantrell Road, Suite B Little Rock, AR .

Even in cases where patients worry a broken tooth cannot be saved, endodontic treatment often requires fewer visits than tooth replacement procedures.

Can a Tooth Be Saved Instead of Extracted?

Patients often ask whether a loose tooth can be saved, or if damage means extraction is inevitable. In many cases, even teeth that are cracked, decayed, or broken can be preserved with timely endodontic treatment. Our goal is to restore your tooth to a healthy condition that will last a lifetime.

Still Considering Endodontic Treatment?

If you’re still weighing your options, learning more about how endodontic care works can help you feel confident in your decision. Our blog breaks down what to expect from treatment, how it can protect your natural teeth, and clears up common misconceptions that cause unnecessary concern. We recommend starting with our guide on 3 Reasons to Consider Endodontic Therapy, followed by Myths About Root Canals, which addresses some of the most common fears patients have about the procedure.

If you still have questions or want personalized guidance, contact our office and we’ll be happy to talk through your situation and help you decide the best next step for your dental health.