Do you have a throbbing toothache? Depending on the severity of your situation, your dentist might recommend a root canal treatment. However, sometimes, the damage is too severe to restore the tooth. In that case, a tooth extraction becomes necessary. But what is the difference between root canal vs. extraction?
In this blog, we will explain both of the procedures so you can understand how they’re different. We will also mention the pros and cons of each treatment. Keep reading!
Difference Between Root Canal vs. Extraction
When it comes to root canal vs. extraction, the procedures are different in a few ways. Primarily, root canals involve removing the infected pulp from your tooth, whereas extractions are performed to remove the tooth entirely.
What Happens in a Root Canal
There is a common myth that root canals hurt, which is not true. It’s the painful root canal symptoms that can cause discomfort. The procedure itself actually helps save your tooth from further damage and pain.
The root canal therapy is quite simple. The endodontist numbs the affected area so you don’t feel any discomfort. Then, they make an opening in the tooth to remove the infected tooth pulp, which is also responsible for your pain. Once the pulp is removed, the dental specialists clean the area and fill it with gutta-percha. If your tooth is severely weakened or damaged, you will need a dental crown. A few steps and you will be good to go with your restored tooth. For a few days after the treatment, you might feel slight pain or discomfort but that’s it.
Pros & Cons of a Root Canal
Like every dental treatment, root canals have their own set of pros and cons.
The major benefit of root canal is that it helps save your severely damaged tooth. But that’s not all! You can look forward to the following benefits of root canal:
- Saves your tooth
- Protects your tooth from further damage
- Shields surrounding teeth from infection and decay
- Prevents gaps between teeth
- Low cost option
- With proper care, lasts for years
With benefits, drawbacks are not much far behind. Hence, root canal procedure might have a few cons as well. These include:
- Might weaken the tooth
- May require a dental crown
- Could require two appointments if you need a dental crown
What a Tooth Extraction Procedure Involves
Usually, dentists leave tooth removal as a last resort. Therefore, you might need to undergo extraction for the affected tooth. The dentist numbs the damaged tooth, which means you will not experience much pain during the procedure. In a tooth extraction procedure, the dental expert loosens the tooth from its socket to extract it. This might result in slight pressure, but your comfort will not be compromised. You might feel slight pressure during the extraction.
After the procedure, your dentist will instruct you on the aftercare. Make sure to follow their instructions for proper recovery.
Pros & Cons of Tooth Extraction
Extracting a tooth might help save it, but like root canal, this procedure has both pros and cons.
- If you’re in need of a tooth extraction, don’t fret! It has the following benefits:
- You need a single visit to the dentist
- No more concerns of reinfection and pain
- Saves the surrounding teeth from damage
Some disadvantages of this procedure include:
- Permanent tooth replacement is needed
- Might cost more
- Recovery takes longer
- Comparatively more painful than root canal
Should I Get A Root Canal Or An Extraction?
Since missing teeth bring complications, your dentist will prioritize saving and restoring your tooth. However, factors like extreme tooth damage might call for a tooth extraction. Your dentist will decide which treatment option is the best for you, depending on your case.
What’s Next?
At Aava Dental, we have the best and most effective treatments for you. Visit us at 12820 Victory Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91606. You can also book an appointment with us at (818) 792 4500.