Choosing between a dental bridge and a root canal can be challenging. Both offer solutions to restore your smile and ease discomfort but serve different needs. To help you decide which option best suits your oral health and lifestyle, we’ll explain each treatment’s benefits, drawbacks, and key factors, guiding you toward an informed choice.

What is Dental Bridge & Root Canal Treatment?

A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth (pontics) anchored in place by crowns attached to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Bridges restore functionality, improve appearance, and prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of place.

A root canal is a dental procedure to save a severely decayed or infected tooth. It involves removing the infected pulp from the tooth’s interior, cleaning and disinfecting the canal, and sealing it with a filling material. This treatment alleviates pain, prevents infection, and preserves the natural tooth.

Both treatments address different dental concerns. A dental bridge replaces missing teeth, while a root canal saves and repairs a damaged tooth.

How to Choose Between Dental Bridge and Root Canal Treatment?

bridge vs root canal treatment2

Choosing between a dental bridge v/s root canal treatment depends on your specific dental condition, overall oral health, and personal preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

bridge vs root canal treatment3

  1. Condition of the Tooth

    • Opt for a Root Canal: A root canal can save the tooth if it is severely decayed or infected but still structurally sound.
    • Opt for Dental Bridge: If the tooth is missing or must be extracted due to irreparable damage.

  2. Functionality

    • Root Canals preserve natural teeth, maintaining the bite’s original functionality and preventing bone loss in the jaw.
    • Dental Bridge: Restores chewing ability and appearance by replacing missing teeth but may require adjacent healthy teeth to be altered for support.

  3. Aesthetics

    • Both treatments provide aesthetically pleasing results. However, a dental bridge may be more suitable if the original tooth is missing or unsalvageable.

  4. Cost and Longevity

    • Root Canal: Often more cost-effective upfront and can last a lifetime if well-maintained.
    • Dental Bridge: Typically more expensive initially and may require replacement after 5–15 years.

  5. Health and Stability

    • Root Canal: Retains the natural tooth, maintaining jawbone health and stability.
    • Dental Bridge: This may not prevent bone loss in the missing tooth area unless combined with dental implants.

  6. Time Investment

    • Root Canal: Typically completed in one or two sessions.
    • Dental Bridge: This may require multiple visits to prepare, fit, and finalise the bridge.

Choose a root canal if the tooth can be salvaged and you prefer to maintain your natural smile. Choose a dental bridge if the tooth is missing or extraction is necessary and you want a functional, long-lasting replacement.

Let Us Help You Make The Right Choice!

Choosing between a dental bridge and root canal treatment is a significant decision that depends on your dental health, personal preferences, and lifestyle. While both options restore your smile and functionality, the right choice depends on your unique circumstances. 

Greenvale Dental Group specialises in personalised dental care to help you make informed decisions about your oral health. Our experienced team will evaluate your condition, explain your options, and guide you toward the best treatment plan for long-term results.

We Offer Affordable Treatments

At Greenvale Dental Group, we understand that the affordability of dental bridges and root canal treatments in Australia can become a financial concern. To make these essential procedures more accessible, we’ve partnered with the National Dental Plan (NDP) to offer interest-free payment plans up to $15,000.

Payment Plan Options:

  • For treatments up to $2,000, choose between:
    • Five fortnightly payments over 2.5 months with no fees.
    • Ten fortnightly payments over 5 months with a modest $8 monthly fee.
  • For treatments up to $15,000:
    • Fortnightly payments with no interest.
    • A one-time establishment fee of $70 and an ongoing $8 monthly fee.

Applying is quick and straightforward, often taking 5 minutes with on-the-spot approval.

Our experienced team is dedicated to guiding you through every step. We’ll also help you explore payment options and insurance coverage to find a plan that fits your budget.

Don’t let financial concerns delay your dental care. Schedule a consultation and receive a personalised quote for your dental bridge and root canal treatment now.

Along with root canals and dental bridges, here are some more services offered by Greenvale Dental Group tailored to meet your needs:

Your smile reflects your confidence, and choosing the proper dental treatment is vital. Greenvale Dental Group is here to guide you every step of the way. Trust our expertise, and let us help you achieve a healthy, radiant smile that lasts a lifetime. Book your consultation today and take the first step toward your perfect smile!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What is the main difference between a dental bridge and a root canal treatment?

A. A dental bridge replaces a missing tooth, while a root canal saves and repairs a severely decayed or infected tooth, preserving your natural tooth structure.

Q. How do I know if I need a root canal or a dental bridge?

A. A root canal may be suitable if the tooth is still present but damaged or infected. A dental bridge is better if the tooth is missing or needs extraction. Consult your dentist for a thorough evaluation.

Q. Are dental bridges or root canals more cost-effective?

A. Root canals are typically more cost-effective upfront and, if maintained, can last a lifetime. Dental bridges may have higher initial costs and need replacement after 5–15 years.

Q. Do dental bridges prevent bone loss in the jaw?

A. Traditional dental bridges do not prevent bone loss in the area around the missing tooth. If bone preservation is a priority, consider a dental implant.

Q. Is the procedure for a root canal painful?

A. Root canal treatment is performed under local anaesthesia and is generally no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Post-procedure discomfort is minimal and usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Q. Can a dental bridge look natural?

A. Yes, dental bridges are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing an aesthetically pleasing result.

Q. How long does each treatment take?

A. A root canal usually requires one or two sessions, while a dental bridge may require two to three visits, depending on its complexity and the preparation needed.

Q. Which treatment lasts longer: root canal or dental bridge?

A. With proper care, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime. Dental bridges typically last 15 years but may require replacement.

Q. Can I eat normally after these treatments?

A. Yes, both treatments restore functionality. However, after a root canal, you may need a crown for added strength. With a dental bridge, adjacent teeth must support the prosthetic, so care is necessary to avoid undue stress.

Q. What’s the recovery time for these procedures?

A. Recovery from a root canal is usually quick, with minor sensitivity for a few days. A dental bridge may have an adjustment period as you adapt to the new prosthetic.

Q. Can I choose either treatment based on preference?

A. While personal preference is a factor, the choice largely depends on the condition of your tooth and your dentist’s recommendation based on your oral health.