Root Canal Extraction Confusion: Do You Save or Remove the Tooth?

The phrase 'root canal extraction' can be misleading because it sounds like one single procedure, when in reality, root canal and tooth extraction are two completely different dental treatments for very different goals. The goal of a root canal is to save the natural tooth and maintain your bite, smile, and bone structure whereas the goal of extraction is to remove the entire tooth which is the source of infection or pain, particularly when saving the tooth is no longer a viable option.

Let’s unpack the key differences and the scenarios where each may be a beneficial option for your oral health so that you are able to make an informed choice.

What is a root canal treatment?

A root canal treatment or endodontic therapy is a dental procedure used to remove infected pulp, including nerves and blood vessels, from the inside of a tooth. It's usually recommended when a tooth has dental issues such as deep decay, infected tissue, or pulp damage that causes tooth pain, swelling, or an abscess. Root canal treatment uses a biocompatible material and temporary filling to seal the space and may require multiple visits. A dental crown is often placed to protect the remaining natural tooth. Your dental professional can walk you through the financial implications of each of these dental procedures to remedy your damaged tooth.

When a tooth is badly damaged or infected, your dentist may discuss two main dental treatments: saving the affected tooth with a root canal or opting to extract the tooth. A dental x-ray helps assess the pulp chamber and the condition beneath the crown of the tooth. While removing the tooth may seem quicker, preserving your natural tooth is often better for long-term oral health. If extraction is necessary, a dental bridge or implant can replace the missing tooth. Bridges or implants restore function, but saving a tooth is generally preferred when possible.

What is a root canal extraction?

A tooth extraction is the complete removal of the tooth from its socket. This is typically considered when the tooth is too damaged to be restored, or when keeping the tooth could cause further health risks. This might involve a simple extraction or a more complex surgical extraction, depending on the condition and location of the tooth.

After an extraction, you may need a replacement tooth like a dental implant, dental bridge, or artificial tooth to prevent complications such as bone loss or shifting of adjacent teeth. Tooth loss may cause resorption of the jaw bone making it difficult for restoration options such an implant. Although extractions tend to have a lower initial cost, replacement solutions can increase total expenses over time.

Should I choose root canal treatment or extraction?

Both extractions and root canal treatments can be used to treat dental issues such as deep decay, inflamed pulp, severe pain, and both can involve some mild discomfort which can be managed with over the counter pain relievers. Choosing between root canal procedures and tooth extractions depends on your specific situation and this can include multiple factors:

• Condition of your tooth
• Your age
• Systemic health conditions such a diabetes, bleeding disorders and osteoporosis
• Medications such as blood thinners and bisphosphonates
• Treatments for cancer such as chemotherapy or radiation can compromise bone healing
• Cost considerations such as upfront cost involved for each treatment and additional costs for future procedures
• Lifestyle factors such as smoking and drinking may need to be considered for post-extraction care
• Your overall oral health goals with regards to function, aesthetics and long-term success

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• What Is Root Canal Treatment?
  
• Why you need a Root Canal Treatment

When should I consider root canal extraction?

While root canal therapy is an effective procedure with a reliable success rate, it isn’t always a feasible option for every patient or every problematic tooth. Here are a few cases where tooth extractions may be a viable alternative:

1. Elderly Patients with Health Concerns

Patients with chronic illnesses (e.g. heart conditions, diabetes, or undergoing chemotherapy) may have a longer recovery time or higher risk of complications. Patients with serious health conditions, weakened immune systems, or those on blood thinners may healing process time or higher risks with root canal therapy. In these cases, a quick, clean extraction may be safer and better tolerated.

2. Severely Damaged or Untreatable Teeth

If the tooth structure is too compromised such as from a fracture, extensive decay, or bone loss, restoring it with a dental crown may not be possible. Extraction avoids further complications or costly additional procedures.

3. Baby Teeth with Infection

In most cases, baby teeth will fall out naturally, but if infection spreads or causes pain, extraction is often the recommended solution to protect the developing adult teeth.

4. Wisdom Teeth

Infected or decayed wisdom teeth are rarely treated with root canals. Wisdom tooth extraction is usually the go-to option due to their difficult position and limited function.

5. Inaccessible or Failed Root Canals

Teeth with complex root structures or previously failed root canal fillings may have a low likelihood of success if retreated. In such cases, tooth removal followed by a dental implant may offer better long-term consequences.

6. Failed endodontic treatments

Conclusion

Dental health decisions to treat tooth decay can feel overwhelming, especially when you're in pain. If you’re struggling to decide between a root canal procedure or extraction, feel free to talk to your dental professional about your treatment options, health conditions, and personal priorities.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution. When making an informed decision about your dental care, it is prudent to consider not just the immediate outcome, but also the long-term implications for your bite, appearance, comfort, and confidence.

Whether you’re leaning toward saving your tooth with a root canal procedure or considering extraction we are here to help you with your decision-making process. Give us a call to schedule a visit with us!