When you have significant tooth pain, you know that you should schedule a visit with your dentist right away to have it resolved. However, deciding on a treatment option can be tricky. Root canal treatment may be able to restore your damaged tooth. However, a tooth extraction is a cheaper, quicker option. Continue reading to learn more about these two options so you can determine which is best for your situation!
How Do Tooth Extractions and Root Canal Treatment Work?
Tooth Extractions
When you have a severe toothache, it is likely the result of an infection within the tooth’s pulp – the innermost chamber of the tooth. This aggravates the nerve, sending pain signals to the brain. A tooth extraction solves the issue by removing the painful tooth entirely, including the infected portion and nerve that was responsible for your discomfort.
Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment takes a different approach. During this procedure, your dentist will make an opening in the tooth to remove the damaged tissue and the nerve from within. Then, they will clean the inside of the tooth before filling it with dental filling material. Often times, a dental crown is placed over the treated tooth for extra support and protection. Before this procedure begins, your mouth is numbed with a local anesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel any pain.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Better?
Both tooth extractions and root canal treatment can relieve pain and eliminate infection, but a tooth extraction may be a more ideal solution if:
- It is not practical to preserve your damaged tooth. Teeth that are severely damaged may not be salvageable with root canal treatment. In this case, it may be best to extract the tooth and replace it with a dental implant.
- Your troublesome tooth is a wisdom tooth. For most people, wisdom teeth aren’t necessary and can actually do more harm than good. It may be better to just have them extracted instead of waiting for more issues to arise.
When Is Root Canal Treatment Better?
Root canal treatment is the preferred option in many cases because it can prevent complications associated with tooth loss after an extraction. When possible, it is almost always best to keep your natural tooth intact. The root of your tooth stimulates your jawbone, preventing it from atrophying. Preserving your tooth can also prevent the surround teeth from drifting out of place and leading to misalignment.
Root canal treatment may be more costly than a tooth extraction upfront, but when considering the cost of getting a dental implant following your tooth extraction and other associated treatments, root canal treatment is likely the worthwhile investment to make.
Both tooth extractions and tooth canal treatment have excellent benefits, but they are ideal for different circumstances. During your appointment, dentist will recommend the best course of action to restore the health of your smile!
About the Author
Dr. Nancy Cabansag is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than two decades. She earned her dental doctorate from the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in California. Since then, she has been committed to continuing education to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. Currently, she is a proud member of the American Dental Association and Texas Dental Association. For more information on root canal treatment and tooth extractions or to schedule an appointment at her office in Arlington, visit her website or call (817) 508-9881.