“Extract or Root Canal”
by Charles E. Warlick, Jr., D.D.S.
After performing root canal therapy for 30 years I now feel that certain compelling scientific questions must be answered before I will again consider this procedure. Even though I found root canal therapy to be technically interesting, good for business, and (at the time) humanitarian, I am now concerned. My concern has led me to have two of my own teeth removed rather than trying to save them with this therapy. I see the possibility that it might be lowering the power of the immune system in some cases.
When there is infection within a root canal, only two choices are available, extraction or root canal therapy. Any patient in my practice who is experiencing this predicament is offered an explanation of root canal therapy. Also, they are told that if they went to a hundred other dental offices they would probably hear at each one that root canal therapy is a good way to save teeth, as I used to say.
If I am asked about my concerns I tell the patient about the porous nature of the entire root structure. This porous nature starts with the canal traveling the full length through the center of each root; inside the canal is the pulp that includes the nerve, blood vessels and connective tissue. Millions of microscopic tubules connect the canal to the outer surface of the root; they radiate like spokes from the hub of a wagon wheel. The tooth is porous in nature because, other than the enamel of the crown, it is made up of these tubules. The tubules are like densely packed together drinking straws.
When root canal therapy is performed, the canal is cleaned, but it is not sterilized. The tubules are neither cleaned nor sterilized. As a result bacteria, viruses, mold, yeast, fungi, and other microorganisms might inhabit the tubules. These microorganisms and their toxins could weep to the surface of the root, be absorbed into the bloodstream, and then be carried to any organ in the body. These factors although at low levels over time potentially would decrease the power of the immune system as well as damage vital organs.
A big point of confusion is that, after root canal therapy, a tooth very often does not hurt and there is no longer a large area of infection on subsequent x-rays. The pre-therapy x-rays usually show a large area at the tip end of the root where the infection is draining out the visible (not microscopic) opening of the canal.
If you choose to have a tooth removed instead of having a “root canal”, be sure to ask about replacing it.
Charles E. Warlick, Jr., D.D.S.
Dr. Warlick has been practicing dentistry in Wimberley since 1979. He practices at the
c: Hill Country- Extract or Root Canal