Root Canal vs. Extraction
Tooth decay can be painful and interrupt daily life. Visiting the dentist in a timely manner can be the difference between saving the tooth and needing an extraction.
Depending on the severity of the decay, root canal therapy can save the tooth. However, in cases where decay spread throughout the tooth, an extraction is necessary to restore oral health. There are pros and cons to each treatment, and speaking with our dentists can help determine which best fits your needs.
Here’s a break down of what you need to know about each procedure:
Extractions
An extraction is necessary when the infection has compromised most of the tooth’s structure, increasing the risk of spreading throughout the jaw bone.
Once the tooth is removed there are options to replace the tooth, such as with a fixed bridge or an implant-supported crown. It is important to consider these tooth replacement solutions as the loss of a tooth can mean a shift in bite alignment and jaw bone loss.
Extraction may be the cheaper option when compared with root canal therapy but can be costly in the long run. A patient missing a tooth requires follow-up care, such as with an implant, to restore dental health and preserve the jawbone. If left untreated, patients may experience more expensive dental issues in the future. This procedure is generally saved the last option for treatment to preserve overall oral health.
Root Canal Therapy
If the infection has impacted the dental pulp but not to the point that the tooth is unsavable, a root canal treatment is recommended.
Root canal therapy begins with accessing the dental chamber and roots through the top of the tooth. The dentist then removes the infected tissue and cleans the chamber and roots of the tooth. Once thoroughly treated, the site is filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to prevent any further bacteria to access the tissue. The entrance hole is sealed and the tooth is capped with a crown.
Many believe root canal therapy is a painful experience. However, this procedure’s goal is to alleviate the cause of pain and save the tooth. Additionally, modern dental practices have improved comfort during treatment, allowing even the most anxious patients to undergo treatment.
Consider the pros and cons of either root canal therapy or extraction. If you are experiencing persistent, severe dental pain, contact Premier Smiles today.