It’s safe to say nobody likes finding out they have a tooth infection. In addition to being painful, they can also be very dangerous to your nearby teeth. If left untreated, the infection can even spread throughout the body, and in extreme cases, could be fatal. But when it comes to treating them, many patients aren’t sure which option is best: a root canal or a tooth extraction. While root canals allow you to preserve the infected tooth, extractions are faster and less expensive. So, which choice is best? Here’s how to decide if you should get a root canal or extraction for your infected tooth.
The Pros and Cons of Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction may not be an ideal option for everyone, but it is typically a more affordable option. It also has the benefit of removing the infected tooth from your body, so there should no longer be any risk of the infection spreading.
Unfortunately, however, once your permanent teeth are extracted, they will not grow back. This means that you must replace them with a prosthetic. While some patients do not believe this step is important or necessary, missing permanent teeth can cause a variety of oral health problems, including tooth drift, speech difficulties, problems chewing food, and even jawbone deterioration. Thus, your dentist recommends replacing lost teeth with a restoration such as a dental implant, bridge, or denture. These treatments can all add to the cost of your extraction, making the entire process expensive or potentially more expensive than simply getting a root canal.
The Pros and Cons of Root Canals
Root canals are a procedure designed to save an infected tooth. First, your dentist will open the tooth and remove the infected pulp. Then, after it is clean, he will replace it with a synthetic material called gutta percha. This stabilizes the tooth and prevents further infection. Next, the tooth is sealed with a crown or filling, and you can once again use it as you did before the infection.
With a root canal, you can not only keep your natural tooth for a lifetime, but you can also rest assure that your treatment will relieve the pain caused by the infection. Though more expensive than a simple tooth extraction, a root canal can save you money over time, because you will not need to replace your restoration every five to ten years like you would with a bridge or denture. Though dental implants are permanent, too, even a single implant can cost much more than a root canal procedure.
Root Canal Versus Extraction: Which is Right for You?
Now that you know the differences between the two treatments, you may be wondering which one is right for you. Unfortunately, in some cases while you may prefer a root canal, it may not be possible. The type of treatment you get will depend on the severity of the damage to your tooth. If there is too much, you may need an extraction.
Ultimately, the type of treatment you decide on is a decision between you and your dentist, based on your budget, your oral health, and your personal preferences. Generally, your dentist prefers to save your natural teeth for as long as possible, so in most cases they will encourage you to get a root canal over an extraction unless there is a good reason not to. It is important to remember that no matter which treatment you receive, your dentist will work hard to ensure that you are comfortable, and that your teeth and gums are safeguarded from further infection.
About Our Practice
At Healthy Smiles Dental Care of Lansing, our skilled and compassionate team of dentists are proud to offer a variety of smile-saving treatments in one convenient treatment. Whether you need a root canal, an extraction, a check-up and cleaning, or a cosmetic dentistry procedure, we’re ready to assist you.
To schedule an appointment for a tooth extraction, please visit our website or call us today at 517-333-3160.