If you have a damaged tooth, you must have heard several suggestions from your friends or family by now. Some suggest getting veneers, while others suggest a root canal. However, you must listen to what your dentist prescribes.
First of all, both the procedures, veneers and root canal in Chandler, are very different and meant to address different problems. Both procedures restore function and aesthetics, but they serve distinct purposes.
Now the question is, which procedure is right for you?
Read this blog and find out. It discusses the differences between these treatments, their advantages, and when to choose one over the other.
Read on!
Root Canal Treatment
A root canal is a restorative treatment used to treat a severely damaged tooth. When the cavity reaches the pulp and infects it, the infected pulp can damage the tissue inside, causing immense pain. In a root canal procedure, the infected pulp is removed, the site is disinfected, filled, and sealed to prevent future infection and cavities. It is the last step before extraction.
Dental Veneers
A dental veneer is a cosmetic option that can transform a smile. Veneers are thin shells that are placed over the tooth’s surface. They instantly improve their appearance with their uniform shape and size. These are used when the patient has gaps between teeth, cracked teeth, uneven teeth, or minor chips.
When Is a Root Canal the Better Choice?
A root canal is better if you have infected pulp. The signs for the same are swelling, sensitivity, and a toothache. A root canal is a mandatory procedure in such a case.
Here are some common signs that indicate you should get a root canal in Chandler:
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Deep decay or darkened tooth
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Prolonged sensitivity or pain
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A cracked or broken tooth with nerve exposure
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Swollen gums or a pimple-like bump near the tooth
When Are Veneers the Better Option?
If you hesitate to smile due to chipped, cracked, or gaps, and your teeth are otherwise healthy, you may need dental veneers. They hide the discolored, damaged, or misshapen teeth behind a uniform surface, thereby improving the aesthetics and appearance of your smile.
Here are some common signs that indicate that you should get dental veneers:
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Discoloration
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Small chips or cracks in the enamel
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Uneven or misshapen teeth
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Gaps between teeth
Factors To Consider Before Choosing The Right Treatment
Consider the following factors before you choose between veneers and a root canal in Chandler for damaged teeth:
Durability
Root canal treatment also requires a crown placement over the damaged tooth, which increases its lifespan to 10-15 years with proper care.
Porcelain veneers, on the other hand, can also last up to 10-15 years. However, these are prone to breakage if you grind your teeth, bite your nails, chew on ice, or bite on hard objects.
In terms of durability, both are great.
Cost
Cost is a significant factor when choosing a dental treatment. However, you must not decide based solely on cost, as multiple factors affect the same.
First, if you have insurance and the treatment is necessary for your dental health, you will be covered by your insurance.
Second, the cost varies depending on the location, material used, and the complexity of your case.
In Chandler, the cost of a root canal treatment ranges from $800 to $1,500, not including the crown.
Porcelain veneers cost anywhere from $900 to $2,500 per tooth.
Between the two, the root canal is expensive when you add the cost of a crown and follow-up care. However, if the dentist prescribes a root canal in your case, there is no substitute.
Pain and Recovery
There is a popular myth that a root canal is painful, but it is untrue. With anesthesia and modern techniques, the procedure is relatively painless. Yes, you will feel mild pain and discomfort for a day or two, but nothing that can’t be managed with medications.
Veneers are painless, as they are minimally invasive. The recovery time is zero. Some people might experience sensitivity after tooth preparation, but it’s nothing to worry about.
Aesthetics
Veneers are an instant way to enhance your smile.They are custom-designed for your teeth and match your natural teeth in size, shape, and color. The appearance is similar, but better than your natural smile. If your main concern is aesthetics, veneers are the ideal choice.
In case of severely damaged teeth, where the structural integrity of the tooth is compromised, a crown is required to cap the filling. The crown is also custom-designed to match the size, shape, and color of your natural tooth. So, root canals followed by crowns are very natural-looking and expensive.
Which One Should You Choose?
You must consult a dentist to learn whether you need veneers in Chandler. Depending on your dental health, they will prescribe the right treatment.
The rule of thumb is that if you have infected pulp, a root canal is the only option. And if you are aiming for improved aesthetics, veneers are your best choice.
Final Words
Deciding between the two options isn’t about cost or appearance but rather what’s necessary to restore functionality. The benefits of both treatments have been outlined, so the next step is to consult a dentist to determine what your teeth truly need.
