When you have a broken or damaged tooth, your dentist can suggest a root canal or extraction of the tooth. Both treatments will end the pain and preserve your oral health. But whether one or the other is better for you depends on the status of your tooth and what you require in the long term.
A majority of individuals are interested in understanding what sets a root canal treatment near you apart from merely having a tooth removed. It is essential to know the pros and cons of each before agreeing with your oral care professionals.
Saving the Natural Tooth with a Root Canal
A root canal is most often performed when the inside of your tooth becomes infected or damaged. This happens when bacteria seep into the soft inner portion of the tooth. In a root canal, your dentist drains the infection and closes the tooth to keep more problems from happening.
If you are thinking about how long does root canal treatment take, then it is one or two visits depending on the tooth and the extent of damage. Some of the back teeth may require more time to treat because of their location and the number of roots.
When Extraction Is the Only Option
There are times when a tooth cannot be salvaged. In that instance, extraction is the only safe option. This tends to occur with large cracks, severe decay, or when infection has extended beyond the root. Your dentist will discuss these reasons why extracting the tooth could be healthier for you.
After the tooth is taken out, following tooth extraction aftercare steps is important. You’ll need to keep the area clean, avoid certain foods, and rest for a day or two to allow your mouth to heal properly.
Back Molar Dilemma: Save or Remove?
Among the most common queries is how to decide between root canal vs extraction back molar. Molars contribute significantly towards chewing and upholding the framework of your jaw. Extracting a back molar will disrupt your bite if not followed by replacement. However, the root canal won’t always be feasible if the tooth is highly weak or has multiple roots.
In these cases, your dentist will inspect the structure and position of the tooth before advising treatment. The best option is to save a molar where the tooth may be restored and then used as usual afterwards.
Finding a Local Expert
If you’re from Alberta and searching for a root canal dentist st. Albert, it is beneficial to look for one who is well-versed in dealing with deep tooth infections. Root canals need delicate attention, and locating the correct dentist will give you a better result with fewer complications later on.
It is best to talk with your dentist and inquire if you can save the tooth or if there are any risks in saving it. It will make you more confident about the decisions that you make.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Looking at root canal vs. extraction pros and cons can make it easier to decide. A root canal saves your tooth and keeps your bite in alignment, but is longer and may need a crown down the road. An extraction is quicker and removes the problem, but leaves a hole that may need to be filled with a bridge or implant.
Each treatment has different fees, recovery times, and long-term effects. Your dentist will help you decide what is best for you in your specific case, taking into account your own health, budget, and dental needs.
When Time Is Critical
In other instances, swelling and pain may occur suddenly. You may not have time to wait for an appointment. That is when it is important to search for an emergency clinic near you. Such clinics can deal with acute toothache, give rapid treatment, and counsel on whether the tooth can be saved.
If you’re dealing with sudden pain or infection, getting help right away can stop things from getting worse. Emergency dental care can also prevent the spread of infection to other parts of the mouth or body.
What to Expect from Root Canal Therapy
If your dentist indicates that you’ll need a root canal, you might wonder what it’s like. Root canal therapy is an exacting process where the damaged pulp is removed and the interior of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Sounds nasty, but most people swear it doesn’t hurt much differently than having a regular filling.
Once a root canal is done, your tooth may require a crown to ensure it continues to be durable. With good care, the treated tooth will be healthy for many years without needing to be fixed again.
Knowing When to Visit the Dentist
Delays in treatment will lead to greater pain, larger infections, or loss of the tooth. Swelling, recurring pain, and hot or cold sensitivity are the symptoms that must be checked immediately by a dentist near you. They can have an X-ray done and advise you on if the root of the tooth remains healthy.
Delaying too long can complicate or make a root canal impossible. Early action provides you with more alternatives and can lead to a less painful recovery.
Need Help Deciding?
We provide support to patients who are conflicted between saving a tooth or an extraction at Dentus Family Dental. If you are looking for root canal services near me, wish to ask about tooth extraction aftercare, or require an appointment with a root canal dentist St. Albert, we will be happy to guide you through the process.
Our team is also here to assist you if you’re seeking an emergency clinic due to unexpected pain. We can aid you in understanding your options, such as root canal vs extraction back molar advantages and disadvantages, so that you can make the best decision for your health and convenience.