Root Canal vs Extraction: Which to Choose?

When dealing with a troublesome tooth, one of the most common questions patients face is whether to choose a root canal vs extraction.

Both procedures are frequently performed in dental practices, and each comes with its unique set of pros and cons.

At Junction Family Dental Care, we help our patients make the best choices by giving them the scoop on different procedures.

In this article, we will explore the details of root canal vs extraction.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure designed to repair and save a tooth that has become badly decayed or infected.

During the treatment, the dentist removes the damaged pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the tooth. 

This creates some empty space, which the dentist will fill with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. 

Finally, the dentist will seal the top of your tooth, usually with a temporary filling.

In about a week or two, you’ll return to your dentist’s office for them to take out the temporary filling and, if needed, place a crown or another type of restoration on top.

The primary goal of a root canal is to preserve your natural tooth, which is crucial for maintaining your overall oral health.

It's important to note, however, that this procedure is not a cosmetic treatment like veneers.

Advantages of Root Canals

When choosing between a root canal vs extraction, a root canal is often a more conservative treatment.

Here are some of its benefits:

• You can keep your natural tooth.
• A root canal is typically a less invasive procedure compared to extraction, as it focuses on removing the infected pulp instead of taking out the entire tooth. 
• By addressing the infection and saving the tooth, you can avoid potential complications, such as spreading the infection to nearby teeth or developing an abscess. 
• After a successful root canal, along with an appropriate restoration like a crown, the tooth can continue to function normally for many years.

Disadvantages of Root Canals

Root canal treatment has some drawbacks, even though it has benefits:

The procedure can be more complicated and take longer than simply removing the tooth, especially if the tooth's canals are difficult to access.

Some patients might feel temporary sensitivity or discomfort in the treated tooth.

After a root canal, the tooth usually needs a crown for support, which increases both the cost and the time needed for treatment.

What is Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction means removing a tooth completely from its socket in the bone. 

Dentists perform extractions when a tooth has severe decay, gum disease, or is too damaged to fix. 

The process starts with a local anesthetic to numb the area where the tooth will come out. 

For a simple extraction, the dentist uses a tool to loosen the tooth and then removes it with forceps. 

In a surgical extraction, the dentist makes a small cut in the gum to take out a broken tooth or an impacted wisdom tooth, which hasn't yet erupted.

Extractions can also help with overcrowded teeth or to avoid problems with wisdom teeth, the last molars to come in.

Advantages of Tooth Extractions

Tooth extraction has some advantages:

• It can give immediate relief from pain caused by a severely infected or damaged tooth.

• For patients with complex dental issues, extraction may be quicker and easier than getting a root canal.

• Generally, tooth extractions cost less than root canals, especially when you consider the follow-up treatments like crowns.

Disadvantages of Tooth Extractions

Tooth extraction can be necessary in some situations, but it has several downsides:

• The biggest disadvantage is losing your natural tooth forever. Natural teeth are usually stronger and better for biting and chewing than artificial replacements like dental implants.

• When a tooth is removed, it can cause changes in your bite and jaw alignment, which might lead to problems with nearby teeth.

• Extractions also have risks, such as dry socket, which is a painful condition that happens when the blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged. 

• Recovery time after an extraction can vary. Some patients may feel discomfort while healing.

• After an extraction, sticking to the recommended diet can be uncomfortable and challenging, especially for those who smoke or enjoy soda and alcohol.

Which is Better For You: Root Canal vs Extraction?

When choosing between a root canal vs extraction, think about the following:

• If the tooth has a lot of decay or damage but can be saved, a root canal is usually a good choice. If the tooth is too damaged to save, extraction might be necessary.

• Pay attention to your budget and what your dental insurance will cover.

• Consider how comfortable you feel with dental procedures and what your personal preferences are.

• Keeping your natural tooth can be helpful, but if extraction is the best option, plan how you will replace the tooth, such as with implants or bridges.

In Summary

Depending on your individual health needs, you can discuss whether a root canal or extraction would be more beneficial for you. 

If you’re looking to preserve your tooth, a root canal is an option, but if you choose to have it extracted and replace it, that’s entirely up to you. 

If you haven't yet received a professional opinion from a dentist, feel free to schedule an appointment with us.