Root Canal Treated Teeth (The Unhealthy Tooth)

Why a root-canal-treated tooth, though "saved," is no longer a living structure, and what that may mean for the body.

A healthy tooth is a living structure with blood vessels, nerves, and microscopic tubules. When a root canal is performed, that living tissue is removed and the tooth becomes a non-living structure that remains in the body. The internal network of tubules cannot be fully sterilized, and bacteria trapped inside can continue to produce toxins that diffuse into surrounding bone and may enter the bloodstream. This can be a source of chronic inflammation, often without obvious symptoms. For this reason, our practice does not perform root canals; we focus instead on approaches that support long-term health and reduce stress on the immune system.

Learn more about holistic alternatives to root canals at our Red Bank, NJ office.

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Have questions about Root Canal Treated Teeth (The Unhealthy Tooth)? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Glenn MacFarlane.

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Root Canal Treated Teeth (The Unhealthy Tooth) Transcript

A root canal treated tooth is often referred to as a solution to save a tooth. But from a biological perspective, it's important to understand what that really means. A healthy tooth is a living structure.

It contains blood vessels, nerve tissue, and a complex network of microscopic tubules that allow nutrients and communication throughout the tooth. When a root canal is performed, this living tissue is removed. The tooth is no longer vital.

It becomes a non-living structure that remains in the body. However, the internal structure of the tooth is extremely complex. These microscopic tubules cannot be completely sterilized.

Bacteria can remain trapped inside and continue to produce toxins over time. These toxins can diffuse into the surrounding bone and may enter the bloodstream, creating a potential source of chronic inflammation in the body, often without obvious symptoms. From a holistic perspective, this raises an important question.

Is it in the body's best interest to retain a non-living tooth that may continue to harbor bacteria? For this reason, we do not perform root canals in our practice. Instead, we focus on treatment approaches that support long-term health and reduce potential stress on the immune system.

Because what happens in the mouth doesn't stay in the mouth. It affects the entire body.