Method

• A dental implant replaces an extracted tooth. It requires the insertion of a metal post into the jaw area to hold a crown. A root canal involves removal of infected pulp, cleaning of canals and the tip of the root. The dentist disinfects the canal and fills it with antibacterial material or a temporary filling, before sealing the tooth.
  
  

Time

• Root canals can usually be completed with one or two sessions. When a temporary filling is used, another visit may be necessary for a permanent restoration such as filling or crown. In most dental implant procedures, the metal post needs to fuse with the bone before a crown can be placed on it. This can take a few months.
  
  

Cost

• Dental implants are more expensive. Basic implants can range from $1,250 to $3,000. The cost increases significantly If bone graft or gum restoration is needed. The single root canal procedure usually ranges from $350 to $600. A procedure with three or more canals can range from $500 to $860, as of 2010.