If a person has a severe toothache due to an infection or damage in the nerve of a tooth, a dentist will present two options: a tooth extraction or a root canal. A root canal is generally performed if the tooth can be saved, however, if the tooth is damaged beyond repair, then a tooth extraction is performed.
Root Canal
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal procedure involves cleaning the inside of the tooth by extracting the infected pulp and sealing it with a permanent filling to avoid further infection.
Procedure and Recovery
This procedure is done using local anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort. While there may be some sensitivity at the root canal site for a few days, prescribed antibiotics and pain relievers promote a full recovery. Root canal is a very successful treatment and the success ratio of root canal treatment is around 90%.
Tooth Extraction
What Is a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction refers to the procedure in which a dentist removes a tooth that is severely infected or damaged.
Procedure and Aftercare
This treatment is typically carried out using local anesthesia, and it’s important to adhere to the dentist’s recommendations for managing bleeding and minimizing discomfort at the site of extraction.
Pros and Cons of Root Canal and Tooth Extraction Procedures
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
The result of both procedures is relief from toothache; however, one must take into account the fact that after a root canal treatment, the natural tooth’s basic structure remains preserved, and the infection is kept at bay. During the subsequent follow-up visit, dentists advise getting a crown/cap to safeguard the tooth.
Considerations After Tooth Extraction
On the other hand, a tooth extraction leaves behind a gap which needs to be filled else it might lead to shifting of adjacent teeth or loss of bone mass at the removal site. Replacement of the tooth will require several follow-up visits, and the restorative treatment (such as implants or bridges) can be more expensive than a root canal procedure.
Which Treatment Is Better?
In general, root canal treatment is more straightforward and efficient, and with the right maintenance, it can last for a lifetime. With minimal time and discomfort, your tooth can be preserved. Moreover, no bridge, denture, or implant can replicate the feel of your natural tooth.
FAQs
- Is a root canal better than a tooth extraction?
In most cases, a root canal is better because it saves the natural tooth, maintains jawbone strength, prevents shifting of nearby teeth, and avoids the need for more expensive restorative treatments.
- When is tooth extraction the only option?
Tooth extraction is recommended when the tooth is severely damaged, cracked beyond repair, has extensive decay, or the infection is too advanced for a root canal to be effective.
- Is a root canal painful?
No. A root canal is performed under local anesthesia, making the procedure virtually painless. Most patients report it feels similar to getting a regular filling.
- How long does it take to recover from a root canal?
Recovery from a root canal usually takes a few days. Mild sensitivity is normal and can be managed with prescribed pain relievers or antibiotics, if needed.
- What happens if I don’t replace a tooth after extraction?
Leaving a gap can cause nearby teeth to shift, lead to bone loss in the jaw, affect your bite, and make future tooth replacement more complicated and expensive.
- Is a root canal cheaper than an extraction?
In the long run, yes. While extraction may seem cheaper initially, replacing the missing tooth with an implant or bridge costs significantly more than completing a root canal and crown.
- How long does a root-canal-treated tooth last?
With proper care and a dental crown, a root-canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime.
- Which is faster: root canal or extraction?
Extraction is usually quicker, but it requires additional appointments for replacement (implant/bridge/denture), making the overall process longer than a root canal.
