Recently released data from the American Association of Endodontists reveal that increasing numbers of patients in the United States seek care from endodontic specialists (that is, dentists treating root canals) to preserve their natural teeth. From 2020 to 2024, the share of endodontic treatments performed by endodontists increased from about 34.6% to 44.4%. Correspondingly, the share of patients seen by endodontists increased from 36% to 45%.
This indicates greater patient awareness that a natural tooth is worth saving via root-canal treatment if possible rather than having it extracted.

According to patient surveys, 94% of adults said it was important to keep their natural teeth for as long as possible; 71% of those who had a root canal said they were glad they did rather than go for extraction.
Why this is important
For many, the term “root canal” still evokes fear or discomfort. However, the reality today is much more positive than the stereotype. Advances in technique have made the procedure much more comfortable, and, for the majority of teeth, a well-executed root canal followed by some form of restoration can often enable the tooth to survive for many years.

If more patients are opting for endodontic specialist care, we should start to see overall improvements in outcomes (less extraction, less implant as a default). New data indicate a shift in the dental-care landscape of the US-toward more preservation and away from extraction.
What to monitor in the following week
In the following week in the US, a bunch of related events will potentially arise:

Insurance and Referral Trends- Given the increasing numbers of patients entering into treatment with specialist endodontists, insurers may be reviewing policies for referral or coverage related to root canals compared with extraction/ implant pathways.
Patient Education and Public Perception- As awareness on the subject increases, so may campaigns or write-ups debunking root-canal myths
Technology/Technique Updates- Although not what we would call “breaking news”, older research already hints as innovation . It is possible for some new study, tool, or recommendations to emerge.
Provider capacity and referrals- For more patients opting for specialists, general dentists may be making those referrals, and, indeed, endodontic clinics may be advertising capacity or new offerings.
Outcomes tracking- Possible further data or reports on long-term tooth survival after root-canal treatment to assist in decision-making for patients.
What this means for you
If you’re beneath a deep cavity, inflamed pulp, or an infected root, it is a good time to ask, Can my natural tooth be saved?
Instead of just going for an extraction, ask whether a specialist endodontist might be appropriate.

Remember that nowadays root-canal treatments are almost painless, and that extraction or implants are not the only options.
Once roots have been treated, make sure that adequate restoration (crown or filling) follows so as to maximize the survival of the tooth. Studies show that restoration delivered long after endodontic treatment significantly compromises its survival.
Now use this dynamic repositioning in the dental-care landscape: query your dentist about their endodontic referral or treatment approach, and demand a clear explanation of risks, benefits, and alternatives.
Take-away
The trend in the US is quite clear: More people are making informed choices to preserve their natural teeth via specialist root-canal care rather than taking the money-and-run approach of extraction or implants. With better techniques and outcomes and a heightening awareness, root-canal treatment is more and more emerging as an option to consider-the sensible choice, really-instead of just one to be dreaded. In the coming week, expect more stories surfacing or perhaps getting weight through policy or insurance changes and growing visibility for root-canal-centric care. Therefore, when you are in a situation where your dentist puts extraction upon you, it is worth asking if a root canal would serve as a legitimate alternative-and might you in fact be better served by an endodontist?