If you find yourself seat in front of your dentist with a tooth that’s extensively decay or damage. You may be given one of two options to fix your tooth: a root canal or extraction. The severity of damage to the tooth and the extent of the dental problem usually determine which option is best.
However, the two treatment options should not be view as interchangeable and serve different purposes. This guide will explain the key differences between a root canal vs extraction and help you make the right choice.
What is a Root Canal?
Injuries or chronic infections can damage the tooth pulp, which contains the tooth’s blood and nerve supply. In such cases, root canal treatment is the most suitable option for preserving the tooth’s functionality after it has become non-vital. This treatment is recommend when the tooth can still be salvage. A dentist performs root canal therapy to restore and clean the injured or infected tooth.
The root canal treatment is a complex procedure that begins with a thorough oral examination and diagnostic X-rays taken of the affected tooth. The dentist proceeds with numbing the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthesia. Followed by removal of the damaged part of the tooth.
This removes any sign of infection and sterilizes the affected tooth. The root canals are then fill with a substance known as gutta percha. Which takes the place of the pulp in the canal, and is seal with a permanent filling material. A dental crown is usually place on top of the tooth to help restore its strength and functionality.
What Happens in a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction is usually consider a last resort option when there is no other way to save the tooth. Performed under local anesthesia, the dentist uses dental instruments like elevators and forceps to remove the tooth. Tooth extraction is mainly of two types: simple and surgical.
As the name suggests, simple tooth extractions involve numbing the tooth and pulling it out using dental instruments. These are do on teeth that are already mobile or those that are still firm but intact and visible in the mouth.
Surgical tooth extractions require a minor surgical procedure to remove the tooth and may need stitches on the wound after the extraction is done. Impacted wisdom teeth that are not visible or partially visible, and fractured teeth where the tooth has broken partially or completely, are examples of when surgical tooth extraction may be require.
While the procedure itself is essentially painless in both types of extractions, there may be some amount of discomfort after the effects of the anesthesia wear off.
Root Canal vs Extraction: Pros & Cons
The main argument with tooth extractions vs root canals is that root canals are restorative and preventive treatments, whereas extractions are a complete reset. It’s a fix-it or flip-it scenario. Here’s what to consider:
- When given the option, a root canal treatment should always be the preferred choice as it serves to retain the natural tooth in the mouth.
- While root canals may appear to be the more costly option initially, a tooth extraction can lead to additional costs later on.
- A tooth that has been extract might require a replacement. Missing teeth can lead to the development of dental issues. Such as tooth drifting, jawbone loss, and difficulties with chewing and speaking. Missing teeth are often replace by dental implants or dental bridges. Which leads to the patient spending even more money than they would have on a root canal treatment.
- The recovery period after a tooth extraction can be more challenging than that of a root canal, as it involves an open wound that requires special aftercare. This wound takes time to heal and can be more prone to bacterial infections if not properly managed.
Which is More Painful: Root Canal or Tooth Extraction?
Both procedures are perform under local anesthesia, so you won’t experience unnecessary pain.
After a tooth extraction, an open wound is typically left behind, increasing the risk of post-operative infection. Possible complications include delayed bleeding, swelling, pain, and sensitivity from exposed bone in the wound. For this reason, it’s crucial to pay close attention to the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist and follow them strictly. If you experience any of these symptoms that persist for more than a few days after the extraction. It is advisable to visit your dentist promptly for professional intervention.
Tooth Extraction vs Root Canal: The Right Choice
A dentist uses their expertise and professional judgment to recommend the best treatment for your needs. Both long-term tooth functionality and overall dental health are consider when choosing between the two procedures.
If your tooth can be salvage, a root canal may be the ideal choice. However, if the tooth is severely compromise in terms of structural and functional integrity, extraction may be the only option.
Conclusion
Choosing between a root canal vs extraction necessitates a thorough consult with a dentist and a review of your dental history and oral health goals.
At River Rock Dental, we understand how uncomfortable dealing with this process can be. That’s why we endeavour to be transparent about treatment options. And recommend a plan that prioritizes your comfort and recovery.
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If you’re looking for a solution that lasts or simply wish to develop an effective oral hygiene routine, stop by our dental clinic in shakopee. Our specialists can help!
Call us at 952.445.5556
Our address: 403 1st Avenue East, Shakopee, MN 55379
