Faced with the dilemma of a root canal or extraction and unsure of what to do?
There comes a time in a tooth’s life where it gets into a real pickle. Maybe it has had fillings a few too many times and consists of more filling than tooth. Perhaps instead it has undergone a hard hit or it has been rotting for some time and had grown a huge cavity.
Tooth decay is a very common dental problem, usually caused by an infection or poor oral hygiene. Our teeth are prone to infection because there is a soft cavity in the center of each tooth.
So which to choose – a root canal or an extraction? This blog will compare the procedures and assess the benefits and drawbacks of both to help you in making your decision.
Root Canal Benefits
1. Success Rate
A root canal has a better success rate than a tooth extraction. This is due to the limited future complications associated with the procedure. Root canals are performed by dentists to clean and restore an infected tooth. There is no need to extract or remove the tooth.
2. Painless
Unlike other dental procedures, including an extraction, a root canal procedure is a comfortable and a virtually painless procedure. Endodontists use the recommended equipment in removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the area through a painless process. This makes it the most preferred procedure for tooth decay and cavities.
3. Prevents Jawbone Degeneration
A root canal leaves the infected tooth intact, unlike tooth extraction. With missing teeth, the jawbone easily degenerates over time due to bacteria exposure and other elements. Root canals, help prevent complications of the jawbone in future.
4. Prevents Future Procedures
You may find that if you opt for an extraction, in the future you will decide to complete further treatment. This will turn out to be overall, more costly and take a greater amount of time in the long run. Such treatments include implants, which are one of the most costly treatments dentits offer.
Extraction Benefits
1. Cost
Simple and straight forward extractions are usually the more cost efficient option. However, the price of tooth extraction depends on a wide range of factors. E.g. the positioning of the tooth, especially in cases of wisdom teeth. If the tooth is in a compromised position, it may require a longer appointment and may be an overall, more difficult procedure, resulting in a higher cost price.
2. Quicker
The procedure is typically completed in one visit, but you might be asked to come in for again after a few days to make sure there are no infections. Root canals are a step-by-step process and you typically come in for a few visits before the treatment is complete.
3. When it is the only option
Sometimes your dentist can’t save a tooth. This would make an extraction the only option. This may be the case if you have a very large cavity whichcompromises too much of your tooth’s structure, and a simple fillin gor root canal would not suffice. These cases mean that the tooth is too weak to repair. If your tooth has a severe fracture, extraction may be the best option. A tooth with a crack that continues below the gumline explains is also a prime candidate for removal.
So, Which is Better – A Root Canal or Tooth Extraction?
For a majority of patients, a root canal treatment is the better option. However, in some cases, a tooth extraction is the only alternative. They both have their pros and cons, so it will depend on your overall oral history and procedure preference. The best way to find out which is the right option for you is to come in for a complimentary consultation with one of our experienced clinicians and they can create a treatment plan based on your individual and unique circumstances.
If you have a decaying or decayed tooth, then don’t waste any time and call our dental office today.
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