If you’re considering the pros and cons of a root canal vs. a tooth extraction, you might feel like you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place. Neither option sounds very pleasant!
While it’s true that both treatments can be an effective solution for dental infection, they’re still two very different procedures. The one that will be “better” for you will entirely depend on the severity of your oral condition. Keep reading, and you’ll learn all about the purpose of root canals and tooth extractions.
Root Canal Basics
Harmful bacteria can affect more than the surface of your pearly whites. If they spread to reach inside your tooth, they can wreak havoc on your dental nerves and roots. The only way to get rid of the bacteria is for your dentist to create a small hole, manually clean out your tooth’s inner “canals,” and then patch the hole back up to prevent reinfection. And that’s basically a root canal!
The idea that a root canal is horribly painful is actually an old-fashioned myth. Modern anesthetics are effective at numbing your mouth and promoting a comfortable experience. It’s also a misconception that root canals aren’t safe. Newer, more thorough and reliable research shows that these treatments have a 97% success rate. Overall, a root canal can prevent an oral infection from spreading and enables you to keep your tooth.
The Purpose of Tooth Extraction
Tooth extractions, on the other hand, obviously don’t keep your tooth intact. Dentists only consider them as a last resort option, because it’s almost always better to salvage a pearly white whenever possible. While safe, extractions can also be physically stressful for your jawbone and surrounding oral tissue.
With all of that in mind, you might indeed need a tooth extraction if your tooth is no longer viable. For example, if an infection has severely damaged your dental nerves, that tooth is essentially “dead.” Leaving it alone could actually cause further harm by allowing the infection to spread or by attracting more bacteria due to nerve decay. You could say that tooth extractions are an extreme treatment for extreme situations.
Your Best Treatment Option
The better treatment option for you will be the one that most effectively restores your oral health. If it’s possible to save your tooth with a root canal, you can expect minimal discomfort and preserved dental structure. If it’s not possible to save your tooth, then an extraction will keep your remaining teeth safe from spreading infection. No matter what your dentist recommends, you can trust that they have your best interests at heart!
About the Author
Dr. Mariya Barnett is proud to have received multiple awards that recognize her practice as one of the best dental offices in the area. She truly appreciates how well her team works together to deliver top-notch care and quality results. Dr. Barnett is also a very personable dentist who values the relationships she forms with her patients. If you’re stuck between a root canal and a tooth extraction, Dr. Barnett will listen attentively to your concerns and make sure you receive the best treatment for your oral health! To contact her office, call 469-874-0469.