If you have a tooth infection, you may have a difficult decision to make. Should you have the tooth removed, or should you undergo a root canal procedure? Each option comes with its own pros and cons, but which treatment is the best solution? Here’s a closer look at root canals versus tooth extractions, and how you can decide which procedure is the better choice for you.
Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction: What’s the Difference?
When considering which treatment option works best for you, it is important to understand what each one is. A tooth extraction is when your dentist permanently removes a tooth from your mouth. Conversely, a root canal procedure is when your dentist opens an infected tooth to clean out the infection, replaces the infected pulp with a synthetic material, and then seals it back up with the help of a crown. This allows you to keep the natural tooth and prevents the infection from spreading to other teeth.
Root Canals vs. Tooth Extractions: Pros and Cons
Now that you know the difference between the two procedures, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each. Here is a brief breakdown:
Root Canal Pros
- Allows you to keep your natural tooth
- Clears infection and keeps your other teeth safe
- Proven safe and effective
Root Canal Cons
- Can be more expensive than extraction
- It could require multiple appointments
- Requires maintenance of a crown
- Small risk of requiring a repeat procedure
Tooth Extraction Pros
- Clears infection and prevents it from spreading to other teeth
- More affordable than a root canal
Tooth Extraction Cons
- Tooth extraction is permanent (tooth will not grow back)
- You will need to replace the extracted tooth
Ultimately, a root canal is the preferred choice for most patients, as it allows them to keep their natural teeth and will not require a tooth replacement after healing, however the final decision is yours to make and should be carefully considered. If you have any questions or concerns about which choice is best for you, please speak to your dentist about your treatment options.
About Dr. Shroff
Dr. Roshan Shroff became inspired to be a dentist after seeing his family dentist relieve his mother’s painful toothache. Today, Dr. Shroff is proud to provide pain-relieving oral healthcare for his own patients. He enjoys staying current in all facets of dentistry and completes an average of 50 to 100 hours of continuing education each year (two to three times the state requirement!). Dr. Shroff is also an active member of the American Dental Association, Colorado Dental Association, Metro Denver Dental Society, and the Academy of General Dentistry.
To schedule an appointment for a root canal or tooth extraction, please visit our website or call Shroff Dental Arts today at 303-632-3622.