Dental implants replace the tooth root and crown independently without affecting neighboring teeth, lasting 25 years or more and preserving jawbone. Bridges attach to adjacent teeth for support, requiring grinding down healthy teeth but avoiding surgery and costing less upfront. Implants suit patients with good bone density wanting permanent solutions. Bridges work when neighbors need crowns anyway or when surgery isn't possible. At Picasso Dental Clinic, where I've restored thousands of missing teeth since 2013 treating over 70,000 patients, I recommend implants when feasible for long-term value, but bridges remain excellent alternatives in appropriate situations.

Most patients feel significantly better within two to three days after root canal treatment, with mild soreness resolving completely within one week. You can resume normal activities immediately and eat normally once anesthesia wears off. The tooth and surrounding tissues take several weeks to heal completely at a cellular level, but this happens without symptoms. At Picasso Dental Clinic, where I've performed thousands of root canals since 2013 treating over 70,000 patients, I tell people to expect three days of manageable discomfort, one week until the area feels normal, and four to six weeks for complete internal healing

The most common side effects after root canal treatment are mild soreness, sensitivity when chewing, and slight swelling, all of which typically resolve within three to seven days. At Picasso Dental Clinic, where I've performed thousands of these procedures, I'd estimate that 70 to 80 percent of patients experience only minor discomfort manageable with over the counter pain medication. You can minimize side effects by taking prescribed medication on schedule, avoiding hard foods for several days, maintaining gentle oral hygiene, and following specific aftercare instructions. The key is prevention through proper technique during the procedure and diligent self care afterward. Serious side effects like severe pain, significant swelling, or persistent symptoms are rare and usually indicate complications needing prompt attention

The five clearest signs you need a root canal are persistent tooth pain that wakes you at night, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold lasting more than 30 seconds, swelling or tenderness in your gums near a specific tooth, tooth discoloration turning grayish, and a recurring pimple-like bump on your gum. At Picasso Dental Clinic, I see patients daily who've ignored these symptoms for months, and early treatment always leads to better outcomes. If you're experiencing even one of these signs, schedule an examination within a week to prevent an abscess or tooth loss.