Root canal treatments are among the most common dental procedures performed today, typically aiming to save a damaged or infected tooth. By removing the infected pulp and sealing the interior of the tooth, root canals help prevent further decay or infection. While traditional dentistry considers root canals an effective solution, holistic dental practitioners often question their long-term safety, suggesting potential links to broader systemic health concerns. Root canal removal is necessary if a tooth becomes chronically infected, but holistic dentist believe other healthier options are available.
This article delves into the nuances of root canal treatments, the scenarios where removing a root-canal treated tooth might be advisable, and holistic alternatives to root canals that prioritize overall health.
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What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?
A root canal is designed to save a tooth with deep decay or infection without resorting to a tooth extraction. If the nerve of a tooth is infected, it will die and the tooth will either need to be extracted or a root canal procedure will need to be performed. There is no way to reverse a root canal, just like there is no way to revive a living thing from the dead. The procedure typically involves:
- Pulp Removal: The infected or damaged tissue (pulp) inside the tooth is carefully removed.
- Cleaning and Shaping: The now-empty canals are cleaned and shaped to ensure no infected material remains. This is impossible to do completely because the inner part of the tooth is porous like a sponge and small amounts of bacteria will remain.
- Filling and Sealing: The canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent reinfection. Not all root canal materials are biocompatible and many people can react to the root canal filling material and sealant.
Root Canals Save Teeth But at the Risk of Chronic Infection
Although this process can effectively save a tooth and restore its function, critics argue that sealing off the root canal system may trap bacteria and toxins that can potentially seep into the bloodstream, contributing to systemic health issues over time. Teeth roots are porous and bacteria and toxins can seep into and out of the roots. The head and neck is rich in blood supply. 40 percent of the blood supply is constantly entering and leaving the head and neck.
Some holistic practitioners believe bacteria in root canal can cause joint pain and cardiovascular disease. According to Dr. Viet Le, root canal removal has led to cessation of cases of frozen shoulder. Gum disease is linked to heart disease based on research done over 20 years ago. The root cause is bacteria from the jaw getting into local blood supply and travelling to other parts of the body and cause infection and disease.
Root Canal Removal Protocol Video
Why Would a Root Canal Need to Be Removed?
In some cases, a tooth treated with a root canal will need to be removed entirely. Here are common situations where root canals will need removal:
- Recurrent Infections: Even after a root canal, infections can persist. If an abscess develops or the infection becomes chronic, the tooth may no longer be salvageable.
- Structural Issues: Teeth treated with root canals can become brittle over time. A fracture or crack that compromises the integrity of the tooth could necessitate extraction.
- Health Concerns: Some holistic practitioners suggest that the residual bacteria and toxins in a root canal-treated tooth could trigger or exacerbate systemic conditions like autoimmune diseases, chronic fatigue, and even cardiovascular issues.
Can Root Canals Cause Systemic Infection?
While the evidence linking root canals to systemic diseases remains controversial, individuals with ongoing health issues or sensitivities may explore removal as a precautionary measure. People with Lyme disease, autoimmune conditions, cancer should consider removing root canals to avoid the risk of root canal infections and systemic disease.
The Potential Health Risks of Root Canals
Root canals have long been debated in holistic health circles. Critics claim that:
- The tooth, despite being sealed, is no longer “alive,” which could make it a breeding ground for anaerobic bacteria, fungus and other toxins.
- These bacteria could release harmful toxins into the body, potentially affecting other organs and systems.
- Materials commonly used in root canals can cause hypersensitivity reactions and systemic inflammation.
- Health conditions like arthritis, thyroid disorders, or chronic inflammation may be linked to unresolved infections in root canal-treated teeth.
- People who have other infections such as Lyme are especially vulnerable to co-infections that can spread from root canals. It is an established fact that bacteria from the gums can spread and infect other parts of the body such as the heart and joints. It is not a stretch that bacteria can spread from root canals and cause a wide spectrum of health problems.
Root Canals Are Completely Safe
On the other hand, mainstream dental organizations assert that root canal treatments are safe and that advances in modern dentistry have significantly minimized risks. It’s essential to weigh the evidence and consult a knowledgeable dental professional when making a decision. Most holistic dentists recommend biological removal of infected root canal teeth.
Root Canal Removal Protocol
For those considering removing a root canal-treated tooth, holistic dentistry offers a range of protocols designed to minimize risks and support natural healing.
- Ozone Therapy: Ozone gas can be used to sterilize the area around the extracted tooth, effectively eliminating bacteria and fungi. This reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
- Removal of the Root Canal Tooth– Usually done in a way to minimize the trauma. Often dentists will remove the root canal tooth by first removing the crown and sectioning and removing the individual roots one at a time.
- Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF): Derived from the patient’s blood, PRF accelerates tissue repair and supports bone regeneration in the extraction site.
- Complete Periodontal Ligament Removal: Holistic dentists prioritize removing the entire periodontal ligament during extraction to prevent residual tissue from harboring bacteria or hindering bone regrowth.
- Biocompatible Materials such as Zirconia Implants: When replacing the tooth, holistic practitioners often recommend materials that are biocompatible and unlikely to trigger adverse reactions.
- Zirconia Bridges or Partial Dentures: For those who are concerned about implants, bridges and dentures can be considerable. In most cases, a dental implant is the best tooth replacement option.
These methods align with holistic dentistry’s focus on promoting overall health rather than simply addressing isolated dental issues.
Alternatives to Root Canal Treatments
For individuals who want to avoid root canals altogether, there are viable alternatives:
- Tooth Extraction: Removing the tooth is the most straightforward alternative. However, leaving the gap unfilled could lead to other dental issues, such as shifting teeth or bone loss.
- Dental Implants: Replacing the extracted tooth with an implant offers a long-lasting solution. Implants are resistant to decay and infections, making them a preferred option for many holistic dentists.
- Bridges or Partial Dentures: Depending on the situation, bridges or removable dentures can also replace a missing tooth.
Each option comes with its own set of pros and cons, which should be thoroughly discussed with your dentist.
How to Decide: Should You Remove a Root Canal?
The decision to keep or remove a root canal-treated tooth is deeply personal and depends on various factors, including:
- The current condition of the tooth.
- Any symptoms or recurring infections.
- Your overall health and susceptibility to systemic conditions.
Consulting a dentist familiar with holistic practices can provide valuable insights tailored to your unique needs. Additionally, seeking a second opinion may help clarify whether removal is the best course of action.
Conclusion: Holistic Perspectives on Dental Health
Root canals remain a staple of traditional dentistry, but their long-term safety and impact on overall health are subjects of ongoing debate. Whether you choose to retain or remove a root canal-treated tooth, it’s crucial to make an informed decision that considers both your dental and systemic health.
Holistic dental practices can provide alternative solutions and emphasize treatments that align with the body’s natural healing processes. If you’re exploring your options, schedule a consultation with a holistic dentist to determine the approach that best supports your well-being.