are root canals safe Archives

Why Biological Dentistry Looks Beyond the Tooth Alone

Posted on May 25, 2026May 22, 2026 by Digital Resource

A cracked tooth or sore gum can seem like a problem confined to a single small area of the mouth. Yet oral symptoms are often connected to larger patterns involving breathing, inflammation, bite function, lifestyle habits, and overall wellness. A Biological dentist in Maryland evaluates these connections rather than focusing solely on the visible problem. This broader perspective helps explain why recurring dental concerns sometimes continue despite repeated treatment and why more comprehensive evaluations can support longer-lasting oral stability and comfort.

Why Biological Dentistry Takes a Broader View

Biological dentistry is based on the idea that oral health is not separate from the rest of the body. The condition of the mouth may reflect broader functional and structural patterns developing over time.

Symptoms Often Have Contributing Factors

A single symptom may have several underlying influences. Tooth sensitivity, jaw discomfort, or recurring inflammation can result from a combination of habits and structural patterns rather than a single isolated cause.

For example, recurring enamel wear may relate to:

Clenching or grinding

Mouth breathing

Bite imbalance

Stress-related muscle tension

Acidic dietary habits

By evaluating these factors together, biological dentistry aims to identify patterns that contribute to ongoing irritation or instability.

Oral Health and Daily Function Are Closely Connected

Chewing, breathing, swallowing, and speaking all rely on coordinated movement between muscles, teeth, jaws, and airway structures. When one part of the system becomes strained, the effects may appear elsewhere in the mouth.

This is why biological dentists often evaluate:

Jaw alignment

Tongue posture

Breathing habits

Muscle tension

Bite pressure distribution

Looking at oral function as a whole allows for more personalized treatment planning.

How Biological Dentistry Evaluates More Than Teeth

Biological dentistry uses detailed evaluations to better understand how oral structures function together over time.

Airway and Breathing Evaluations

Breathing patterns can affect oral tissues, jaw position, and muscle activity. Mouth breathing, especially during sleep, may contribute to dry mouth, gum irritation, enamel wear, and jaw tension.

Biological dental evaluations often assess:

Tongue position

Lip seal

Palate shape

Signs of airway restriction

Bite relationship

These observations help identify patterns that may influence oral health beyond the teeth themselves.

Advanced Imaging for Deeper Insight

Digital imaging and CBCT scans allow dentists to evaluate structures beneath the surface. These scans provide a more detailed view of:

Bone structure

Root anatomy

Jaw alignment

Airway space

Hidden areas of infection or inflammation

This information supports more precise treatment planning and helps identify concerns that may not appear during a standard visual exam.

Lifestyle and Health Discussions

Biological dentistry often includes conversations about daily habits and overall wellbeing. Dentists may ask about:

Sleep quality

Stress levels

Diet and hydration

Clenching habits

Previous dental experiences

These discussions provide context that helps explain recurring symptoms or healing challenges. For example, poor sleep may contribute to grinding, while chronic dry mouth may relate to hydration or breathing patterns. Understanding these details helps dentists identify factors that may affect inflammation, tissue comfort, bite stability, or recovery after procedures. This broader perspective supports more personalized care and thoughtful long-term treatment planning.

Biological-dentist-Maryland-checking-patients-teeth

Why Material Selection Matters in Biological Dentistry

Biological dentistry also focuses on how materials interact with the body over time.

Biocompatible Restorative Materials

Material selection is approached carefully to support comfort and compatibility. Biological dentistry often uses:

Ceramic restorations

BPA-free composite fillings

Zirconia implants

Metal-free crowns

These materials are selected based on durability, tissue response, and long-term oral balance.

Metal-Free Implant Options

Zirconia implants are commonly used in biological dentistry because they provide a metal-free alternative with a natural appearance. They are often chosen by patients interested in biocompatible treatment approaches or those with sensitivities to certain metals.

Material selection is considered part of the larger goal of supporting healthy tissue response and long-term stability.

How Biological Dentistry Supports Healing

Biological dentistry focuses not only on repairing damage but also on supporting the body’s healing process.

Ozone Therapy and Oral Environment Balance

Ozone therapy is commonly incorporated into biological dental care to help support bacterial management and tissue health. It may be used during:

Gum therapy

Surgical procedures

Cavity management

Preventive care

This approach aligns with the philosophy of maintaining a healthier oral environment while reducing unnecessary chemical exposure.

PRF Support During Procedures

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) uses components from the patient’s own blood to support healing after extractions, implant placement, or surgical treatment. PRF is often used to support clot stability and tissue recovery.

These techniques are designed to support comfort and healing while preserving surrounding tissues whenever possible.

Why Biological Dentistry Focuses on Prevention

Preventive care remains central to biological dentistry. Identifying small changes early may help reduce the likelihood of larger dental concerns later.

Monitoring Bite and Structural Changes

Uneven bite pressure can gradually affect teeth, muscles, and jaw joints. Over time, this may contribute to:

Tooth fractures

Jaw soreness

Muscle fatigue

Enamel wear

Biological dental evaluations monitor these patterns before symptoms become more severe.

Preserving Natural Structures

Conservative treatment planning helps preserve healthy tooth structure whenever possible. Biological dentistry often emphasizes minimally invasive approaches that support long-term oral function rather than aggressive intervention.

This philosophy encourages thoughtful planning that respects both comfort and structural stability.

How Patients Benefit From a Whole-Body Perspective

Patients often appreciate a more comprehensive understanding of their oral health. Biological dentistry encourages education and collaboration so patients can better understand how daily habits and oral function interact.

More Personalized Care

Treatment recommendations are based on:

Structural findings

Lifestyle habits

Healing patterns

Material preferences

Functional concerns

This helps create treatment plans that feel more individualized and practical.

Long-Term Oral Stability

Looking beyond the tooth alone may help identify patterns that contribute to recurring discomfort or repeated dental problems. Addressing these contributing factors supports more stable long-term outcomes.

Whole-Body Care With a Biological Dentist in Maryland

Looking beyond a damaged tooth alone can provide a clearer understanding of how breathing, jaw function, inflammation, and daily habits affect oral health over time. A more complete evaluation supports treatment planning focused on comfort, prevention, and long-term oral stability.

Maryland Holistic Dentist provides biological dental care centered on biocompatible materials, advanced diagnostics, airway-aware evaluations, and personalized treatment planning. Their philosophy combines modern dental technology with whole-body awareness to support healthier oral function and lasting wellbeing.

Schedule a consultation to learn how biological dental care can support a healthier, more balanced smile.

Why Holistic Dentists Take a Different Approach to Root Canal Therapy

Posted on September 10, 2025November 28, 2025 by Digital Resource

For many patients, the idea of a root canal brings up thoughts of discomfort and uncertainty. But not every practice views dental procedures the same way. A dentist in Burtonsville, MD, who follows a holistic approach, sees oral health as deeply connected to overall wellness. Instead of focusing solely on saving a single tooth, holistic dentistry considers how materials, techniques, and long-term outcomes impact the body as a whole.

This philosophy guides the performance of root canal therapy—from the diagnostic stage to the final restoration—using techniques that prioritize both dental and systemic health. Understanding why holistic dentists approach root canals differently can help you make more informed choices about your care.

The Philosophy Behind Holistic Dentistry

Holistic dentistry is grounded in the belief that the mouth doesn’t function in isolation but is part of an interconnected system that affects digestion, immunity, and overall wellbeing. In this approach, every dental material and procedure is evaluated for its interaction with the body.

Holistic dentists undergo the same education and licensing as traditional practitioners, but they go beyond conventional methods by integrating biocompatible materials, advanced imaging, and minimally toxic treatments. They also consider environmental factors, patient sensitivities, and the body’s natural healing capacity.

This patient-centered perspective means the focus isn’t only on restoring teeth—it’s also about promoting balance throughout the body. When applied to root canal therapy, this results in techniques that support both oral health and general wellness.

Traditional Root Canal Therapy Explained

A traditional root canal is performed to save a tooth with an infected or damaged pulp. The process involves cleaning out the infected tissue inside the tooth, disinfecting the canal with chemical solutions, and sealing it with materials such as gutta-percha.

This method is effective in eliminating local infection and preserving the tooth’s structure. However, traditional approaches often use strong chemical disinfectants and sealing materials that some patients find concerning. While these substances help sterilize the canals, they may not always align with a holistic patient’s preference for minimal chemical exposure.

In addition, the conventional model often treats the tooth as an isolated structure—removing infection without always considering how the materials used or residual bacteria might influence overall health. This difference in perspective is what sets holistic dentistry apart.

How Holistic Dentists Approach Root Canal Therapy Differently

1. Biocompatible Materials

Holistic dentists use materials that are carefully chosen for their compatibility with the body’s natural chemistry. These are typically metal-free and BPA-free, which reduces the risk of irritation or an immune response. Fillings and sealants may include bioceramics or resin-based materials that support healing and are designed to last without introducing toxins into the body.

2. Ozone and Laser Technology

Instead of relying solely on chemical disinfectants, holistic dentists often incorporate ozone therapy and laser-assisted cleaning to sterilize the canals. Ozone gas is known for its strong antimicrobial properties and can penetrate tiny spaces within the tooth, killing bacteria more effectively while preserving healthy tissue. Lasers offer precision cleaning that minimizes trauma and facilitates a faster recovery.

3. Advanced 3D Imaging

Holistic practices often utilize cone beam CT (CBCT) scans, which produce detailed 3D images of the teeth and surrounding bone. This technology helps identify hidden infections, root fractures, or bone loss that standard X-rays might miss. By having a complete view of the tooth and jaw, the dentist can plan treatment more precisely, reducing complications and improving long-term results.

4. Reduced Chemical Exposure

Traditional root canals often involve sodium hypochlorite, a strong disinfectant. Holistic approaches replace or minimize their use, opting for oxygen-based or herbal rinses that are less aggressive to surrounding tissues. This method helps limit chemical exposure while maintaining effective sterilization.

5. Whole-Body Consideration

The biggest distinction is that holistic dentists evaluate how dental infections, materials, and procedures affect the immune system or other organs. They may assess inflammation, nutrition, and stress levels to ensure the body can heal effectively after treatment. This comprehensive view transforms root canal therapy from a purely mechanical procedure into one that supports the body’s natural balance and healing.

Alternatives and Preventive Focus

Before recommending a root canal, holistic dentists carefully evaluate whether it’s truly the best course of action. Sometimes, depending on the extent of infection or damage, tooth extraction followed by replacement with a zirconia implant or a biocompatible bridge might be considered. These materials are metal-free, durable, and designed to integrate naturally with the bone.

Holistic dental care also emphasizes prevention—addressing the root causes of infection before they become severe. This can include early cavity detection, proper airway management to reduce clenching or grinding, and guidance on diet and oral hygiene. The goal is to create an environment in the mouth that resists infection and supports long-term health.

Holistic dentists may also collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as nutritionists or sleep specialists, when broader factors like diet or breathing patterns contribute to recurring dental issues. This integrated care model strengthens the body’s resilience and helps prevent future infections.

Benefits of the Holistic Approach

Choosing a holistic dentist for root canal therapy can offer several benefits:

Less exposure to harsh chemicals and potential irritants.
Improved comfort through advanced, minimally invasive technology.
Reduced risk of systemic inflammation due to the use of biocompatible materials.
Comprehensive understanding of how oral health connects to overall wellbeing.

Beyond these advantages, many patients report a greater sense of trust and involvement in their care. Holistic practices encourage open dialogue, giving you space to understand each step of the process. This collaborative relationship builds confidence and empowers patients to make decisions that align with their health values.

Partner with a Holistic Dentist In Burtonsville, MD, Today

Holistic dentistry redefines root canal therapy by examining the tooth in the context of the entire body to understand how dental health impacts overall wellbeing. By utilizing biocompatible materials, ozone technology, and a preventive philosophy, this approach provides a more mindful and patient-centered approach to restoring oral health.

If you’re considering root canal therapy or exploring holistic alternatives, schedule a consultation with an experienced dentist in Burtonsville, MD, who values both your smile and your overall wellbeing. At Maryland Holistic Dentist, your care is guided by science, compassion, and a commitment to your long-term health. Contact us today!

Do Root Canals Cost More Than Implants?

Posted on February 9, 2018February 5, 2026 by Dr Adams

Are root canals or implants more expensive?

Which is more expensive a root canal or dental implant? In general implants cost more than root canals. Implants can last a lifetime, but root canals last 5-10 years on the average. Root canals cost approximately $3000 and implants cost $5000 on the average. Many people will skip a root canal and choose to have a tooth replaced with an implant instead. This is because an implant can be a better financial investment and they do not fail as often and cause jaw abscesses.

cavitation

Are root canals or implants a better investment?

The answer may not be known till later. It all depends on how long your root canal lasts. Sometimes root canals work and sometimes they do not. If the root canal fails, you will need to remove the root canal tooth and replace it with an implant. The catch is, root canals fail months or years down the road. Meaning you may be spending money on both a root canal and an implant.

How long do root canals and implants last?

Root canals last 5-10 years on the average. Implants can last a lifetime and usually are a much better long term investment than root canals. Some people are opting to get implants instead of root canals because $3000 + $5000 = $8000. Any why spend $3000 for a root canal when in a short period of time you will need to pay $5000 for an implant. It may be better to go right to the implant.

Can an Implant be done Instead of a Root Canal?

What happens if you do not do a root canal? Implants usually last much longer than root canals. In fact, many dentists believe implants can last a lifetime. Implant procedures are more predictable than root canals. Technically implants replace teeth that are missing (and are not an exact alternative), but one can choose to electively do an implant procedure instead of a root canal.

Root Canal Vs Dental Implant

Is a Root Canal More Expensive than an Implant Video:

Related Articles:

Implants last longer than implants

Root canal teeth can still get cavities, but implants will never rot or get decay. Root canal teeth are also more likely to crack and break than implants. They are dead teeth. Just like a dead trees branches get more and more brittle every year. And of course, root canals can cause abscesses when bacteria leaks from the tooth into the underlying bone. Implants do not have bacteria inside them and do not cause bone abscesses. Such is the debate to get root canal or to pass go and get an implant instead?

Should you remove tooth and do implant instead or root canal?

One thing is for sure – if you end up paying for a root canal and an implant, you will not save any money. The question about which is more more expensive will be moot.

The stale debate has favored root canals for years. Now implants are routine, done by more dentists. Health concerns with root canals have been questioned by some professionals. Many people are opting to skip root canal procedures and go right to the dental implant. Some biological dentists believe failing root canals can cause health problems by leaking concentrated bacteria and toxins into blood supply under the teeth. The question is whether or not pathogens and toxins in root canals can leak to other parts of the body and cause serious disease such as cancer, Hashimotos, Lupus and cardiovascular disease. Since disease is complex it is very difficult to establish a direct link between root canals and systemic disease. Sometimes root canals can hurt the health of the bone and increase the chances of having implant problems and complications.

What is the life expectancy of a root canal?

The average life expectancy of a root canal tooth is often 5 to 10 years. The cost of a root canal in Burtonsville Maryland is $3500 including a necessary crown. The cost of a dental implant is closer to $4500. Most individuals who lose a tooth will want to replace it with an implant. In the long run doing a root canal will cost you more money since you will incur the cost of the root canal and the implant (that is if you enjoy having a tooth in your mouth). That is you will pay $3500 for the Root Canal and Crown and later $4500 for the dental implant in todays dollars. That is if you are lucky, because normally a root canal will damage your bone and you will need a bone graft to get an implant. Depending on the damage to your bone (because root canals fail by leaking bacteria into your jawbone) the bone graft can cost between $500 – $2500 extra dollars. It also takes longer to get a new tooth. And there are more surgical procedures and appointments in the dental chair.

How to Properly Remove Root Canal Teeth Video:

Should a Root Canal Retreat or 2nd Root Canal be Done?

The success rate of getting a 2nd root canal is 50% or less. Root Canal Retreats are more expensive than the first root canal. Most root canal redos cost from $1300 – $2500 depending on whether it is a molar or a front tooth. And who is doing the procedure. I would never throw good money at bad money like that and retreats normally last a shorter period of time than a first root canal.

Should I get a Root Apicoectomy or Implant?

The concept of an apicoectomy is to cut the bottom of the root off and apply a filling to better seal to the bottom of the root, so bacteria stops leaking out. The idea is to better prevent bacteria from leaking out of the bottom of your tooth. A tooth is porous, so bacteria in the tooth is probably leaking everywhere. The Root bottom may be the biggest hole, but…This procedure will likely not last too long if really work at all. Probably throwing good money at bad money.

Why a Root Canals are Better Than Implants?

A Root canal will cost between $800 and $2000 depending on what tooth it is and who does the root canal. A root canal will typically take 45 minutes to 2 hours in the dental chair over 1-2 visits. At a later visit (best done within 2 weeks of the root canal) you will need a filling in the top part of the tooth called a “build up” and a crown. If the crown and filling are not done in a timely fashion, the tooth will crack and break and the tooth will be lost. On the average root canals will last 5 – 10 years depending on what standard for “working” is being applied. I find that many root canals when evaluated with a high quality 3D Xray show signs of bone loss. Most X rays are 2D and are not able to detect bone loss around root canals as well. A 3D xray called a cone beam CBCT is necessary to fully evaluate a root canal tooth.

What is the Sales Pitch for Implants over Root Canals?

A dental Implant costs $1000 – $2500 depending on what kind of implant it is and who is placing it and where it is being placed. Worth mentioning, not all implants are of the same quality and different implants are made of different materials. Now we have Zirconia which is a tooth colored, non-metallic material and Titanium. Zirconia is more biocompatible than titanium and it is a better cosmetic option in the smile zone. What dental implant material is best? Do non metal implants cost more than titanium implants?

How do I know if a Root Canal is failing?

Root Canals do not Always Work

Bacteria can leak out of the root canal and enter and infect the bone
Root canal filling materials are most often “gutta percha” which is mostly Latex. 20% of the population is allergic to latex and it may be more. Some people may not be allergic but sensitive. Tooth roots are porous and whatever is in it slowly leaks out of the tooth no matter what. What this means, is latex particles and bacteria are constantly leaking out of the tooth. So the real question may be, “did the root canal really every work?”
Root canal teeth are dead and can be subject to rejection by the immune system. Your body isn’t stupid- who or what would want to hang around something that is dead and full of bacteria and irritating material.

How does my Dentist know if my Root Canal has Failed?

Normally the dentist will take a 2D x-ray to look for bone loss. He/She will additionally look for visible signs of swelling and infection around the tooth. The problem with this approach is it takes a long time for bacterial infection to cause enough bone loss to be detectable in a 2D x-ray. In fact it takes a while to cause much bone loss at all. In healthy individuals, the persons immune system will kill the bacteria as it leaks out of the tooth and bone may never be loss. You immune system is just stuck fighting the constant leak of bacteria from the root canals. And what about the latex an the dead tooth issue. Look, the situation is less than perfect.

But remember, there was a time where we did not have Implants and good tooth replacement options. What would you do if you had to choose between losing your front tooth or doing a root canal? Some teeth lend themselves to easier cleaning and sealing than others. For example, a front tooth has one root and these are easier to clean and fill.

There is no wrong path of treatment regarding root canals and Implants if you understand the procedures.

Just go in with your eyes open and consider all the good and bad – finances, time in the dental chair, your health, and the result and you cannot make the wrong decision.

One dilemma in the dental profession is a dental implant is not an alternative to a Root Canal. A Root Canal “saves a tooth” whereas a dental implant is a tooth replacement option usually given after a tooth is lost or if the tooth cannot be fixed.

Are implants safe and do they always work?

Any dental procedure is not without risk of complication. After any procedure in the mouth there can be an infection for example. In most cases the risk of infection in a health patient is minimal. Then the question is how long will the procedure work?

Dental implant work 95% of the time and if they fail it is usually within the healing period of the first few weeks after getting the implant. Once a dental implant has healed, todays dental implants usually last a lifetime. Dental Implants are sterile and they do not decay and they never leak bacteria into the gum and bone. This last fact is a major advantage of implants over root canals.

Why do dental implants fail?

The three most common causes are:

Placement of implants into unhealthy patients
Placement of implants into unhealthy bone. The most common unhealthy bone is 1) bone where there used to be a root canal. Root canals hurt the efforts of future tooth replacement. 2) bone where no tooth has been present for a long period of time.
Patients who do not follow the care instructions after implant placement. For example a patient should never chew on top of a new implant site and they need to take medications as prescribed. Care instructions need to be followed. Believe it or not, some people spend lot of money and time in the dental chair and sabotage their own case.

Root Canals Maryland

Posted on January 31, 2018February 5, 2026 by Dr Adams

Root Canal Removal can remove a major source of oral infection. Our Protocol involves careful extraction of the roots one at a time, removal of the PDL (periodontal ligament), Ozone and Dental PRF (platelet rich fibrin). Using a holistic approach such as this helps to ensure elimination of chronic oral infection and complete healing.

Yes there are situations where root canals need to be removed such as in the event of an abscess or if the tooth is cracked and cannot be fixed. And especially if the tooth is painful. What about if the tooth does not hurt. Sometimes infected teeth do not have pain. Especially when the tooth has no nerve to feel pain as is the case with a root canal.

Some situations may not be so cut and dry such as if there is a question about whether or not an infection from a root is contributing to systemic diseases and overall health. Oral health is an important part of overall health as holistic dentists know.

If you are on the fence about whether or not to remove your root canal teeth, this article is for you. People often wonder if infections from root canals can contribute to other health conditions such as cancer, autoimmune conditions and thyroid problems. Do you have Hashimoto’s disease? Root canals are a risk factor in some diseases. Removing root canals reduces risk to infection and inflammation.

Root Canal Removal Procedure Using a Holistic Approach

Inject ozone O3 and oxygen O2 gas around the root canal tooth. Ozone will neutralize any bacterial and fungal infection that has spread into the surrounding bone. It will also reduce some of the inflammation caused by toxins leaking out of the tooth.
Remove the root canal tooth completely being sure not to leave any small pieces of root chips or gutta percha root filling material. Often times root canal teeth will be very brittle and can break into many small pieces. Also pieces of root canal filling material can be filled out the bottom of the tooth root. It is important to remove any filling material as it is a foreign body.
Remove the periodontal ligament or PDL completely. It is a biological must for the dentist to remove the complete PDL. If the periodontal ligament is not removed, the bone cells cannot migrate into the extraction site and grow bone properly. What can happen is bone and gum tissue will grow over the top of the extraction site, but bacteria will remain in the bottom of the bony socket where the tooth used to be. Bacteria, fungus and toxins can remain for years in old extraction sites and dump their by products into the blood and lymph of the body.
Remove cyst and granulation tissue from the extraction site. The body will often grow cysts around the roots of the teeth to prevent the spread of toxins, bacteria and fungus. If the cysts are not removed the bacterial and fungal pathogens will remain vital in the extraction site. The cysts have their own blood supply and exchange nutrients ans waste with blood supply and lymph.
Place oxygen and ozone into the cleaned extraction site. The gases can easily travel through the pores of the bone, killing any infections and promoting healing. Bone lacks a lot of blood supply, so it is very susceptible to infection.
Place PRF or platelet rich fibrin and completely fill the extraction socket. Do not place any foreign or off the shelf bone graft products. The body will more than likely reject the material and there will be further inflammation and immunological consequences.
Place sutures to proximate as closely as possible any gum tissue that may be loose. The sutures can also act to hold the PRF into the extraction site.
Allow 4 – 6 weeks of healing and re-evaluation the site for proper healing. Administer additional ozone if necessary. Placement of implants can be considered at this time if there is no infection and adequate bone. If necessary, bone grafting and PRF treatments can be performed. Sometimes implants and grafting can be done at the same time.

Do root canals cause disease?

Since root canals can cause infection and inflammation, it only makes sense that they can contribute to systemic disease. But no one can prove that root canals are bad for your health. Is it even possible to make a direct connection or know how one gets cancer from smoking? No one really knows exactly how cigarettes cause lung cancer. But it does. And we all know it. And of course not everyone who smokes gets lung cancer. Where there is smoke there is always fire, right?

Can Root Canals be Reversed?

Once a root canal is done it can never be reversed. Lazarus cannot be brought back from the dead. When the pulp and nerve tissue inside a tooth starts dying, the tooth will either need to be extracted or a root canal procedure is necessary – it is that simple. Root canals can save teeth, but at what expense to your pocket and health? Should a dying tooth be removed instead of getting a root canal? A dental implant is an alternative to getting a root canal. Dental implants have a better long term prognosis and they are much less likely to spread infection. Dental implants also never decay or need root canals. Related article – root canal vs implant

root canal removal options

How long do molar root canals last on the average?

Root canals last 5 to 10 years on the average before causing noticeable pain and problems. This article discusses the pros and cons of root canals and how to safely remove root canals once they abscess and fail. Root canal teeth will eventually crack, break or create an infection inside your jaw. Like a dead tree, the root canal tooth becomes brittle, rots internally and leaks its infection into the jaw and surrounding lymphatics and blood supply. In the future, is it worth getting a root canal or is an implant better? They do not last forever. Does a root canal cost more than an implant?

Root Canal Removal Protocol Video By Dr Adams:

Are root canals bad for your health?

A root canal is not bad for your heal per se. But if a root canal is infected the bacteria and toxins can be risk factors in other diseases. Some people are also sensitive or allergic to root canal dental materials. Chronic allergies are not good for your health.

A root canal is a filling in the root of your tooth where the nerve used to be. Prior to filling the root, the dentist cleans it as best as they can with bleach. But it is impossible to clean all the pores in the root. Over time, bacteria and fungus can grow in the tooth and leak out into the bone and surround blood supply. The immune system of healthy people will usually kill the bacteria and fungus as it leaks out. But no one really knows what happens or where this bacteria can go in your body. Root canal teeth once extracted can be tested by DNA Connexions to determine the pathogens in the tooth. Holistic dentistry considers how a procedure may impact overall health and attempts to do no harm to overall health.

root canal removal or implant

Infections and Toxins in Root Canals can be Dangerous

Bacteria, fungus and toxins can increase the chances of getting diseases such as cancer and autoimmune disease. Additionally, some people can be sensitive or allergic to the filling in the root. It is really that simple. A root that can leak bacteria and filling material can be inflammatory and infectious. Additionally, the dead tooth, like a dead tree gets more brittle over time. And it eventually fractures. These are the reasons why root canals do not last forever. But in certain cases they can last 10s of years. And a root canal is the only way to save a tooth from extraction once the tooth dies. But are you just buying time? And it will need to be removed anyway? Nothing lasts forever. Not the person, the root canal or a dental implant.

Why Do Nerves in Teeth Die?

Trauma such as a blow to the face can cause spontaneous internal bleeding and tooth necrosis.
Cavities and tooth Decay can rot and leak into the nerve. Once the pulp of a tooth is exposed it die. Dead teeth need root canals or removal. It is that simple.
Orthodontics is really an example of trauma. But yes, braces can rarely cause teeth to die. Please do not worry about this. The chances of this happening are very slim.

Alternatives to Root Canals

Is it necessary to get a root canal? If a tooth is dying or dead there are no alternatives other than a root canal or extraction. Your best bet is to try to prevent the tooth nerve from dying with treatments such as dental ozone. And correcting the cause of the problem such as a high bite or deep cavity. Implants are considered to be the best alternative treatment to a root canal. A dental implant is not an exact alternative to a root canal since it involves removing and replacing the tooth. Here are all the options:

Root Canal
Remove the tooth and do nothing
Extract the tooth and do a bridge
Replace the tooth with a dental implant

Are root canals a waste of money and time?

Some people make this decision based upon value and dollars and cents. Considering a root canal on the average lasts 5-10 years, many people will go right to the implant. Implant dentists expect implants to last a lifetime. Others opt to do everything they can to save their natural tooth, spending whatever it takes to try to save their tooth. Some people feel like rather than risk having bacteria leak into their body and losing money, they will go right to the implant. Anyone making an educated decision cannot make the wrong decision. It is up to the patient to select the treatment they want based on informed consent.

Root Cause Netflix Movie Controversy

A documentary called “Root Cause” is available on Amazon but has been removed by Netflix. Root Cause details some of the medical concerns about root canals and jaw bone infection. Root canals are thought by many to cause cancer and autoimmune disease. The truth of the matter is – it is not that simple. On one side of the argument, supporters of root canals say “no peer reviewed studies have linked root canals to cancer or heart disease.”

Health Concerns about Root Canals is Controversial

On the other side, a group of dentists and doctors have noticed that a disproportionate number of their sick patients have root canals. No one can prove that root canals do not cause cancer and autoimmune disease either. It is very difficult to “prove” what causes a disease. Does anyone really know what causes cancer? What we do know is root canals can not be completely clean and do contain bacteria, viruses and fungus. We also know over time, these same pathogens and their toxins leak out into the jawbone and surrounding blood supply. We also know these same bugs can be implicated in certain infection and disease. Not everyone gets sick in any situation. It all comes down to what bug or toxin is present and the susceptibility of the patient.

A bacterial, viral or fungal infection is a primary disease condition. It is easy to relate cause and effect in a “primary disease condition.” Caner or autoimmune disease is at least a secondary disease condition. It is much more difficult if not impossible to prove cause and effect of a secondary disease condition. Typically, there will be an insult such as bacteria or cigarette smoke and possibly an immediate disease condition such as bronchitis. Later, who’s to say what caused lung cancer, but suffice to say, “do you really need to see the fire, if there is smoke?”

Then depending on the person and their systemic response, the bronchitis may progress to other secondary disease such as asthma, emphysema, cancer or whatever. The secondary disease may also come years later or never come at all. That is why some people can smoke 2 packs a day till they are 90 years old and never get lung cancer, but for others, smoking a few cigarettes a day while in college may lead to lung cancer later in life.

The truth – it is ridiculous to say that root canals do or do not cause cancer because no one really knows for sure. But as in most facets of life, it is best to make the best decision for yourself provided all the facts and information.

How Safe Are Root Canal Procedures?

Root Canal teeth are dead teeth where bacteria, fungus and other pathogens can live unchecked by white blood cells and your immune system. This presents a unique problem where pathogens and toxins can reach concentrations unlike any other common infection. Root canals leak bacteria into jawbone and other parts of the body. Roots of teeth cannot be completely cleaned and bacteria, fungus and their toxins persist and increase in numbers over time and they slowly leak all the time.
Root canal teeth have foreign material in the roots called gutta percha. Gutta percha is latex based and can contain metals, phenols and formocreasol. Needless to say, particles of these chemicals can leak out the roots and become immunological systemic irritants.
If an allergist or another doctor believes a root canal may be contributing to systemic illnesses such as Cardiac, Cancer, Lupus, Hashimotos, Thyroid dysfunction.
Cleaners such as bleach are used to clean the roots of the teeth during root canal treatment. No question some of the bleach can leak out of the tooth and into your jawbone. When getting a root canal re-treatment a dangerous chemical called chloroform is placed into the tooth to dissolve old contaminated gutta percha.

Should I Remove My Root Canals?

Root canal removal has many considerations and alternatives. Theoretically it would be a good idea not to have any root canals, but what happens when you remove the root canals and how many root canals do you have? If you have several root canals or your front tooth is a root canal, can you live without the tooth? Can you afford to place dental implants to replace the root canal teeth? Of course you can remove the root canals and get partial dentures. What are the conditions of the root canals you have anyway. You should most definitely remove the root canals if:

1. There is evidence of acute infection – bone loss in a dental x-ray. Bone loss means something must be eating away at your bone. That something eating bone is bacteria, fungus and your immune system.
2. If there is pain – pain on biting indicates acute infection and inflammation in the bone and gum surrounding a root canal tooth
3. If there is swelling – swelling means bacteria are in such high numbers that they have spread to another space such as your mouth, cheek or sinus.
4. If the root canal tooth smells bad – the bad smell is usually coming from bad gases produced by the bacteria and fungus in your tooth
5. If the root canal tooth is significantly darkened – dark teeth are usually full of fungus and bacteria. Dark teeth are usually leaking bacteria and fungus in higher numbers and are a huge risk for abscess.
6. If you have any systemic illness that may be caused by the root canal.

A very similar technique can be used to extract wisdom teeth with ozone and PRF to optimize healing.

root canal removal 1

Can Root Canals Make you Sick Video?

Root Canal Alternatives: Implant vs Partial Denture vs Bridge

Zirconia Implant – a non-metal zirconia implant is the best replacement for a tooth. Most of the time, implants cannot be placed immediately after removing a root canal because of the damage and infection caused to the bone by the root canal tooth. Root canal removal followed by a bone graft and platelet rich fibrin treatment will be necessary followed by a 3-6 month healing period. After the healing period typically a dental implant can be placed by a dental implant surgeon.
Partial Denture – a partial denture is usually not acceptable to most patients in the civilized educated world of Burtonsville Maryland, DC metro area and many other parts of the world. Dentures are not permanent, they rub the gums during eating and feel thick and uncomfortable. Partial dentures over the long-term will lead to more tooth loss. For most, the partial denture is only a temporary solution if one at all.
Bridging teeth is a poor idea because it connects teeth making it more difficult to clean. It also places more pressure on fewer teeth. Ultimately bridging teeth leads to more tooth loss. Bridge vs Dental Implant

Zirconia implants for teeth replacement

Both are a good options, but metal free zirconia implants may be better near the front of the mouth because they are natural or tooth colored and more cosmetic. Gum tissue will also never look dark or metallic around zirconia implants. If you are a clencher or grinder, titanium implants may be better. If you need a large implant bridge such as all on 4 dental implants, titanium implants may be better.

Factors to consider when removing a root canal

Biological dentists who remove root canals can be difficult to find. Especially dentists who remove root canals carefully and properly. Not all root canal removals are the same. The holistic dentist needs to evaluate the tooth, remove it carefully and finally clean and repair any and all damage to the underlying bone and gum.

Root canal teeth are dead. Dead teeth are brittle and can break into little pieces and be difficult to remove. Removal of a root canal tooth is a lot more difficult than removal of a regular tooth. The best strategy is to remove the tooth by taking out the roots one at a time. Once the roots are removed, the dentist can evaluate the root canal extraction site for bone damage, cysts and bacterial and fungal infection. The dentist will need to remove the PDL, any cysts, remove any dead bone, clean all the bacterial and fungal infections. Once the extraction site has been treated, a natural bone graft can be placed to facilitate new and healthy bone growth back into the extraction site.

cavitation

A natural bone graft involves treating the pores of the bone with dental ozone gas, and placing a mixture of PRF and bone minerals and membranes. The process described may be easy or very complex and difficult depending on the extent of the damage caused by the root canal tooth. In extreme cases of infection of the upper teeth, infection can involve the sinus and can be very difficult or impossible to repair. Bone damage and risks of severe infection is one reason why to consider avoiding root canal treatment whenever possible.

Is it better to do a root canal or get a dental implant?

Posted on November 8, 2015June 21, 2025 by Gary Adams DDS

Root Canal or Replace the Tooth with a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are much better financial investments than doing root canals. Dental implants can last a lifetime, whereas root canals last 5-10years on the average. Dental implants cost more than root canals, but some argue “why do a root canal at a cost of $3000…it may be better to remove the tooth and just do an implant that can last a lifetime?” Implants on the average cost in the range of $6000 and $6000 + $3000 = $9000.

Root Canal Vs Dental Implant

Is it better to do a Root Canal or a Dental Implant?

Is the tooth really fixable at all? If a tooth is cracked down the root it is not repairable. A root canal will not work at all for a cracked tooth. Many times cracks cannot be diagnosed until money and time has been wasted on a root canal and crown.
Is the tooth worth fixing anyway? If there is hardly any tooth remaining because the top crown portion is all rotted-out, the tooth may fall apart in a short period of time anyway.
How long will the tooth last if you fix it? In my practice I removed lots of infected root canal teeth. The average age of a root canal tooth is 5-10 years.

Contact Dr. Adams for a complimentary consultation or 2nd opinion

Root Canal Compared to Implants Video

Root Canals Compared to Dental Implants?

Root Canal will take 3-5 dental appointments and cost $2000 – $4000. The necessary procedures include the root filling, crown build-up (a fill for the top part of the tooth) and a crown. The procedures altogether take 3 – 4 hours in the dental chair. On the other hand, a dental implant takes 3 dental appointments and costs $3000 – $6000. An implant takes 1 – 2 hours in the dental chair. The life expectancy of a root canal is 0 – 10 years, but an implant is expected to last a lifetime. There are no health concerns with implants whereas root canals have been rumored to have health risks and cause jaw bone infections. Root canals can also damage the jaw bone and make getting implants in the future very costly if not impossible.

About doing a root canal or implant

Cost of root canal and implant. The cost now and into the future should be considered especially since most root canals will fail within 1-10 years and may need to be replaced with implants
Time spent in the dental chair – your time is worth something and dental procedures are not fun
Dental insurance coverages for root canals and implants
Health concerns

How long do Root Canals last on the Average?

Many people will be placed in a position where they need a root canal. Every year thousands of root canals fail for many different reasons, including root re-infection, root fracture, decay. At a certain point, a tooth may not be repairable or it may get to the point where a tooth is a poor financial investment. Root canal teeth may last only a year, possibly up to 10 years and maybe if you are super lucky, 15 or 20 years.

How Long do Dental Implants last on the average?

Most dental implants, after initial success, last a lifetime. Investing in a root canal can lead to major bone health and infection in the future, requiring multiple bone graft surgeries, cost thousands of dollars and it may not even work. After root canal failure, many people wish they had skipped the root canal and done an implant instead.

Are Root Canals Worth the Money?

Let’s consider these two situations: 1) Root Canal. A tooth in need of a root canal also needs a filling and a crown to stand a chance for success. In the Burtonsville, Maryland area, the cost of a root canal, filling and a crown is $3200 – $4000. The patient will typically need to see a root canal specialist for the root canal. This means the patient will need to go to a different office, meet a different dentist, fill out a bunch of new forms, possibly get more X-rays taken, have another exam and finally receive a diagnosis and root canal treatment.

How Long does it take to get a Root Canal?

The root canal may be done during the same visit or the patient may need to go back for a second visit to get the root canal. The average root canal takes 1 – 1.5hrs to complete in the dental chair. The procedure is not especially difficult to sit through, but it is tedious and often the patient will need to open wide for long periods of time.

Do All Root Canals need a Crown?

Once the root canal is complete, the patient will be sent back to their normal dentist to get a filling and crown procedure. A filling and a crown takes 1-1.5 hours of time. The patient gets a temporary crown and needs to return back to the dentist doing the crown to have the permanent crown placed 2-3 weeks after crown preparation.

Is a Root Canal Worth the Investment All Things Considered?

To summarize, the root canal costs $3200 – $4000, 5 visits to two different dentists and probably 4 hours in the dental chair. The chance for initial root canal success is 85-90% based on the dental literature. Success after 10 years goes way down well under 50%. Root canal teeth can become re-infected and cause jaw bone infections. Root canal teeth are dead and become more brittle over time and are more likely to crack and break.

How do Implants Replace Teeth?

A single tooth replacement with a dental implant. A tooth replaced with dental implant includes the implant post, abutment and crown. The group of these parts comprises a tooth replaced with a dental implant. The cost of dental implant treatment in Burtonsville Maryland on the average is $3500 – $5500. Patients typically report teeth replaced by dental implants look like teeth, chew like teeth and are indistinguishable from natural teeth for the most part.

The Dental Implant Procedure and Process

The patient will typically need to see an oral surgeon specialist for the dental implant placement and tooth extraction. This means the patient will need to go to a different office, meet a different dentist, fill out a bunch of new forms, possibly get more X-rays taken, have another exam and finally receive a diagnosis and a dental implant. The implant may be done during the same visit or the patient may need to go back for a second visit to get the dental implant. The implant placement takes 30 minutes to complete in the dental chair. The procedure is not especially difficult to sit through, and it is normally surprisingly painless. The patient will be referred back to their regular dentist in 2-4 months for an impression for the abutment and crown which is made at a dental lab. After the impression appointment, the patient will need to return in 2-4 weeks to have the crown and abutment inserted.

How it works with getting an implant?

To summarize, dental implant therapy costs $3500 – $5500, 3-5 visits to two different dentists and probably 1.5 hours in the dental chair. Dental implants have a 95% initial success rate. After 5 years the success rates of dental implants goes up to nearly 100%. Dental Implants do not decay like natural teeth and implants are also less susceptible to gum disease than natural teeth. Most implants placed today have a great chance of lasting a lifetime.

Are implants an alternative to root canals?

It should be noted that dental implants are not an alternative treatment to root canals. If a root canal fails, the patient can always have the tooth removed and replaced with an implant. Many factors should be considered such as the chance for success of the root canal, the amount of insurance coverage for the different procedures. For example if, a dental insurance plan pays for more of one treatment verses the other, the patient can take the costs of the procedures into consideration. Ultimately, it is the dentist job to provide all the facts and the patient is to make an educated, informed decision about treatment. How to properly remove a root canal tooth?

We will provide a fair opinion about root canals and implants

At Maryland Holistic Dentist, we will provide a 100% unbiased opinion and refer you to a specialist if you decide a root canal is the best option for you. If you decide to have an implant, we have a full service dental implant center and we will remove and replace the tooth with a dental implant in as few as 3 visits in 3 months. We offer zirconia metal free implants and titanium dental implant.

Common Root Canal Questions:

Are root canals safe?

Root canal safety varies from one person to the next and is relative. What is a root canal? A root canal is where a tooth has died or is dying and where a treatment is performed to save a tooth. In every tooth root there is a living nerve, artery and vein. This living tissue resides in a tiny space at the center of the root. We call this tiny space in the center of the root a “canal”. When a tooth has a crack or decay that gets into the canal, the tooth will surely die. The tissue will be destroyed by any small bacterial contamination. A root canal is where a dentist attempts to clean the canal of the tooth and place a rubber based filling material and sealant.

How to avoid needing a root canal?

If a tooth is dying, treatment is absolutely medically necessary. There are only two options: 1) tooth removal 2) root canal. There are no other treatment options for a dead or dying tooth. The only way to prevent a root canal is to prevent the tooth from dying in the first place. Focus should be placed on early treatment of tooth symptoms and regular dental exams to treat dental cavities early. Also, treat tooth clenching and TMJ problems which is the leading cause of cracked teeth and extractions / root canals. Teeth that become symptomatic should be treated immediately with dental ozone, bite adjustments and whatever is necessary to remove the cause of tooth inflammation. Every attempt to preserve the vitality of the tooth should be made and the cause of inflammation should be removed it at all possible.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is really a filling material placed in the canal of the root of a tooth. The filling is intended to prevent bacterial from leaking out of the tooth and into the underlying bone. If bacteria leaks from the tooth it will cause an infection and eventually an abscess. Obviously the bacterial infection is a medical problem.

Are root canals bad for your health?

Additional problems with root canals are people are often allergic or reactive to the filling material and sealant placed way down into the root. The tooth root is porous and particles of the filling material can leak out into the underlying bone and gum. An individual can develop antibodies to the root canal materials and there can be an immunological reaction. If a patient is reactive to the root canal material, there can be white blood cell responses and chronic inflammation.

A root canal is a dead tooth. The human body is constantly looking for things that do not belong and the system knows the difference between self and non-self. Is the root canal tooth non self? The debate continues.

Will a root canal make you sick?

the jury is still out. If you are allergic to the root canal filling material or have an infection caused by a failing root canal, something should be done. The options would be tooth extraction or another root canal with possibly a different filling material.

Are there alternatives to a root canal?

No. The only other option is a tooth extraction or tooth removal.

Are there natural root canals?

No. There is nothing natural about having a hollow dead tooth filled from top to bottom with foreign material in your mouth.

Do holistic dentists do root canals?

Sometimes but most do not believe root canals are good.

Is there a natural alternative to a root canal?

No.

How to treat a root canal naturally?

There is no way to do a root canal naturally.

Are dental implants safer than root canals?

The are no reported human reactions to zirconia and very few to titanium. There are risks to implant surgery, but implants can be placed very safely. Implants rarely fail once they have healed properly. Implants do not have canals or pores with bacteria in them like root canal teeth can. The risk of root canal failure goes up every year after initial success. The success of implants is nearly 100% after successful placement and thy typically last a lifetime.

What happens if you don’t get a root canal?

you will get a jaw bone abscess and eventually get very sick. An extraction is necessary.

Can I get an Implant if my root canal does not work?

Root canal failures can cause lots of jaw bone infection and loss of bone. Sometimes the jaw bone heath can be so poor after a failed root canal that a dental implant may not be possible even after extensive bone grafting and gum grafting efforts. Most of the time a dental implant is possible after a failed root canal. Many people may opt for a root canal and then do a dental implant when the root canal fails. All pros and cons should be considered in treatment decisions.