A root canal is a common dental procedure that can often save a tooth that is infected or at-risk. But due to the stigma associated with root canals, patients often wish to avoid them, opting for extraction instead.
Which option is better for your long term oral health, root canal or extraction? Dentists and endodontists agree that if a tooth can be saved, a root canal is the best option. Learn more about root canal therapy and how it can preserve your natural smile.
Understanding the Purpose of a Root Canal
A root canal is an endodontic procedure, which means it treats the inner portion of the tooth, the dental pulp. At the center of each tooth there is a chamber that contains soft tissue made up of blood vessels and nerves. The pulp, as it is referred to in dentistry, is susceptible to infection if bacteria reaches it. A deep cavity or a crack in a tooth are often the path to a pulp infection.
Root canal therapy is used to treat the tooth, either to eliminate or prevent infection. A small hole is made in the crown of the tooth to access the root canal, the chamber containing the pulp. The pulp is removed, the root canal is cleaned and disinfected, and the tooth is filled. A dental crown is typically placed over the tooth following root canal therapy to seal it off from future infection.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
- Pain relief. During a root canal the nerves are removed, putting an end to any pain you feel due to infection.
- Preserve the natural tooth. A root canal keeps the natural tooth intact, including the root that anchors it in place.
- Avoid costly replacements. Root canal therapy is typically a less expensive option than replacing the tooth with a bridge or dental implant.
- Keep remaining teeth in proper alignment. By treating the tooth and keeping it in place, the other teeth remain in place without any shifting.
When Tooth Extraction Becomes Necessary
In some cases the tooth can’t be saved with a root canal and will need to be extracted:
- Severe decay. In some cases a tooth is simply too decayed to save with a root canal or any other restorative procedures.
- Large fracture. If too much of a tooth breaks off, extraction may be the only option.
- Certain cracked teeth. A crack in a tooth that begins or extends under the gumline, or a split tooth, will likely need to be extracted.
Comparing Long-Term Outcomes
When it comes to choosing root canal therapy vs extraction, there are many long term considerations to keep in mind:
- Cost. The cost of a root canal may be more than a simple extraction without replacement. However, it is in the best interest of your oral health to restore or replace the tooth, and dental prosthetics come at a higher cost than root canal therapy.
- Function. Repairing the natural tooth with a root canal allows it to stay in place with its own root for support. This preserves the natural function of the tooth, allowing you to chew effectively and eat the foods you enjoy.
- Appearance. Even when restored with a crown, a root canal preserves the appearance of your tooth for a natural looking smile.
- Comfort. Keeping your natural tooth in place is more comfortable than leaving a gap that can make chewing difficult and cause irritation to the gums in the empty socket.
Get a Professional Opinion
When it comes to making the decision to treat or extract a tooth, it can help to talk with a specialist. An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in treating the dental pulp inside your teeth. If the tooth can be saved, an endodontist offers the best chance of success. With the help of advanced technology and expertise, an endodontist may be able to save your tooth when a general dentist cannot.
Contact ReGen Endodontics
If you’re in need of a root canal, ReGen Endodontics provides specialized treatment that offers the best chance of saving your natural tooth. After a brief evaluation we can provide a recommendation for the best course of treatment for your long term oral health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Treatment
Is a root canal painful?
A root canal relieves pain rather than causing it. During a root canal, anesthesia is used to make you comfortable. Then the nerves are removed from the tooth to ensure there is no residual pain following the procedure.
How long does a root canal last?
A tooth that has been treated with root canal therapy can last for 10-15 years on average. But many last decades or even a lifetime.
ReGen Endodontics provides endodontic services for patients in Morrisville and Garner, NC. Our personalized treatment plans help patients make informed decisions about their care that will result in long term oral health and improved quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to discuss your treatment options.
