If you’re dealing with a painful and compromised tooth, you may be wondering what your options are for effectively handling the issue. Fortunately, among all the ways that modern dentistry can assist your smile is root canal therapy—but is this always the best option? Or is it sometimes better to simply have the tooth pulled? Here’s more from your dentist in Springfield about root canals versus tooth extractions and why the former is usually the best option for addressing painful oral issues.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
A root canal is a common treatment for a tooth with an infected or inflamed pulp, which is typically the result of a deep cavity or trauma. In popular culture, root canal therapy is notorious for being scary and painful—but this is far from the truth! In fact, there’s often very little pain associated with the procedure and most patients compare it to receiving a dental filling.
After a preliminary exam, your dentist will provide anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area before getting to work. A hole is drilled into the top of your tooth and the infected pulp is then cleared out. Next, your dentist cleans up the inside of your tooth before filling and sealing it, so it’s closed off from infection. This process can usually be completed in a single appointment, with a follow-up appointment often necessary to place a crown.
What Happens During Tooth Extraction?
Since your natural teeth are quite important, tooth extraction is usually only utilized as a last resort if the affected tooth cannot be saved. Sometimes a tooth can become infected at the roots, and this infection might spread beyond the tooth and jeopardize your overall oral health. The affected tooth can be extracted to eliminate the problem and alleviate pain or discomfort.
The procedure is straightforward; if the tooth is visible and ready for extraction, it’s first loosened and then removed using forceps. If the tooth is below the gums, it will need surgical removal. In any case, your dentist will numb the affected area and ensure that the process isn’t painful for you!
Which Is the Better Option?
In the majority of cases, root canal therapy is going to be the preferred option, since it salvages your natural tooth. Even though tooth extractions have their own benefits and can sometimes be necessary, they will inevitably lead to a gap in your smile that must also be addressed before additional problems can develop.
Your smile is at risk if you have a damaged or infected tooth! Knowing what your options are and which is ideal for a particular situation can ensure that you promptly get the treatment you need.
About the Author
Dr. Aliana Henkin received her DMD from the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine and is a proud Fellow of the International Dental Implant Association. She’s also a member of several other professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the New Jersey Dental Association. If you have any questions about the article or need to schedule a visit, feel free to contact Dr. Henkin through her practice’s website or by phone for assistance: (973) 949-0925.