A root canal is a procedure that potentially saves a tooth that has ended up extremely damaged or infected. The dentist will begin by removing the damaged part of the tooth, cleaning out the infected area, and then filling and sealing the remaining space. This helps to prevent any further damage or infection and allows the tooth to stay where it is. A single-tooth implant is a dental surgical procedure that requires switching a missing tooth with an artificial one. A small metal post is placed into the bone of the jaw, and then a replacement tooth is attached on top. Unlike a root canal, which preserves the natural tooth, a single-tooth implant involves replacing the entire tooth with an artificial one. While both procedures are effective ways to treat dental problems, there are some key differences between them. A root canal is typically done when a tooth can be saved, while a single tooth implant is used when a tooth cannot be saved or has already been lost. Additionally, a root canal is generally a less invasive procedure than a single tooth implant, which requires surgery and a longer recovery time.