Root canals save millions of teeth

The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) would like to commend you for highlighting the importance of maintaining good oral health as you age in the recent article "A healthy retirement" (Aug. 6). Although the article extols the benefits of preserving natural teeth, it fails to mention that undergoing root canal treatment is actually the best way to safeguard a natural tooth and when indicated should be preferred to a dental implant.

Root canals performed by endodontists save more than 17 million natural teeth a year. And thanks to advances in technology, they are virtually painless.

Emerging research continues to demonstrate the positive relationship between oral health and overall health. Therefore, it is vital that aging patients recognize the importance of sustaining the functionality and longevity of their natural teeth. Endodontists' advanced training and expertise allow them to save teeth that once were considered hopeless.

For your readers interested in learning more about endodontic treatment, I encourage them to visit www.aae.org.

Shepard Goldstein, D.M.D.

President

American Association of Endodontists

Chicago