The majority of the US population is suffering from cavities and looking for ways to remedy that. Dentists offer two reliable treatments for this condition; root canal vs extraction. Let’s have a look at which one is best for you.
Root Canal vs Tooth Extraction – 7 Differences Between These Two
Purpose
A root canal vs an extraction is a procedure that repairs an infected or damaged tooth root. On the other hand, the latter is a procedure that removes a tooth from the mouth.
Level of Invasiveness
A root canal is a less invasive procedure than a tooth extraction. During a root canal, your dentist will remove the infected tissue inside but not the tooth itself. However, tooth extraction removes the entire structure from the mouth.
Recovery time
The recovery time for a root canal is typically shorter than for a tooth extraction. After getting your root canal, you will experience pain and sensitivity to an extent, which subsides within a few days.
On the flip side, you may have greater pain and swelling after extraction, and recovery takes longer.
Cost
Root canal procedures vs tooth extractions cost more. The reason is that a root canal is more complex and time-consuming.
Replacement options
After a root canal, your tooth is restored with a crown or filling to protect its function. After tooth extraction, the missing tooth may need replacement with a bridge, implant, or denture to maintain the structure of your mouth and restore function.
Impact on surrounding teeth
A root canal procedure typically has less impact on the surrounding teeth than a tooth extraction. When your tooth is extracted, the surrounding teeth may shift to fill the gap, affecting the alignment of your teeth and their bite.
Overall health impact
A root canal can help to save your tooth and prevent the spread of infection, which is important for maintaining overall oral health.
However, an extraction may be necessary if your tooth is severely damaged or infected, but it can also impact overall oral health by creating a gap in the teeth that may need to be filled with a replacement tooth.
Is root canal better or a tooth extraction?
In general, it’s better to save your tooth with a root canal procedure rather than extracting it. This is because a natural tooth is stronger and more functional than a replacement tooth, such as a dental implant or a bridge.
On the other hand, tooth extraction involves removing the tooth from the socket in the bone. An extraction may be necessary in the following cases.
- If your tooth is damaged to a fault and cannot be saved with a root canal.
- Your teeth are crowded.
- Alignment problems in the mouth.
It is best to try to save a natural tooth. However, there may be situations in which extraction is the best option. Contact professionals from Lone Star Dental to know more. Dial (281) 233-0333 to connect with us.