Whenever a tooth is decayed or damaged to the point the pulp is affected, consider whether a root canal or tooth extraction is the better solution. While both will alleviate your pain and solve the immediate problem of eliminating infection, they each have advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of a Root Canal
If there is a chance of saving your natural tooth, a root canal may be the preferred treatment for several reasons, including:
- Preservation of the natural tooth, with no need to replace a missing tooth.
- Root canals are less invasive than extraction and virtually pain-free.
- Root canals are cost-effective because you do not have to replace the missing tooth with a prosthetic tooth or implant.
Disadvantages of a Root Canal
- Reinfection of the tooth is a risk, leading to re-treatment. Future tooth fractures or cracks can encourage bacteria growth.
- Root canals can weaken the tooth’s structural integrity, making it prone to breakage.
Tooth Extraction Pros
Tooth extraction is an alternative to a root canal that relieves pain and infection while preventing damage to the surrounding teeth and jawbone. The advantages include:
- Immediate pain relief. If your toothache is unbearable or you suffer from sensitivity that interferes with your ability to eat and drink, a tooth extraction immediately resolves the problem.
- There is no risk of reinfection because the diseased tooth is removed completely.
Tooth Extraction Cons
- The cost of replacing the missing tooth can be high.
- If you don’t replace the missing tooth, adjacent teeth can shift out of alignment, leading to the need for additional dental work.
- A missing tooth leaves a gap in your smile.
Root Canal or Tooth Extraction: Which is Right for You?
Choosing between a root canal or a tooth extraction can be difficult. We will explain your options and help you choose the one that best suits your needs and oral health. The decision is based on several factors, including:
The Severity of the Infection
If the tooth infection is mild to moderate and is localized to a single tooth, a root canal is an excellent choice. However, extraction may be necessary if the infection has spread to adjacent teeth, the gums, or the jawbone.
Cost
Although the cost of dental work should never be the first consideration, we understand that it must be a part of each patient’s decision. The cost of a tooth extraction is less than the cost of a root canal. However, if you need a dental restoration such as a dental bridge or implant, you will incur more expenses at that time.
Choosing the Best Option for You
There is no “right answer” for everyone. If you have a toothache and you would like it taken care of quickly, we can help you choose the right option to restore your dental health and alleviate your pain in the best way possible without destroying your budget. Contact your nearest Leading Edge office if you have a toothache, and we will schedule your appointment as soon as possible.