When faced with severe tooth decay or dental damage, dentists often recommend root canals or extractions. Many people get anxious at the thought of a root canal, perhaps because of a few common misconceptions about them or because of many comedic representations of them as miserable and painful. Here’s why it’s usually best to receive a root canal instead of an extraction if your tooth can still be saved.
When Should I Have a Root Canal?
Root canals are used to save teeth that have been extensively damaged by injury or decay from extraction. The pulp is the soft tissue at the center of a tooth, and it contains blood vessels and nerve endings. If a cavity breaches the tooth’s outer layers and reaches the pulp, or if an injury exposes the tooth’s inner chamber to the environment, a root canal can prevent further pain and infection by removing the pulp, sanitizing the chamber, and sealing the tooth. The tooth will then probably be fitted with a crown to restore its original appearance and function.
When Should I Have a Tooth Extraction?
Dentists are in the business of preventing tooth loss, but sometimes the only way to protect the other teeth is to remove one that is beyond saving. If a tooth is badly decayed or injured, it is vulnerable to infections that can spread to the other teeth and even other parts of the body, which can result in dangerous secondary infections like sepsis or pneumonia. In these cases, extracting it can eliminate these risks, but it’s highly recommended to replace lost teeth quickly to prevent problems like the other teeth from drifting out of alignment.
Why Would a Root Canal Be Preferable?
A root canal can provide a variety of benefits over tooth extraction. These include:
- Saving a tooth from extraction
- Preventing a loss of alignment due to missing teeth
- Avoiding the need for a costly restoration like a partial denture, bridge, or dental implant
- Involving a shorter recovery period than tooth extractions
Your dentist will only recommend a root canal or an extraction if it is absolutely necessary. A root canal can spare you from pain and further infections while allowing you to keep your tooth.
About the Practice
Plum Grove Family Dental offers the best dental services available in Rolling Meadows, IL. Led by Dr. Ye Wang, the staff ensures that patients of all ages receive stellar oral healthcare in a friendly and welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry such as root canals and extractions. To learn more about the benefits of getting a root canal, contact the office online or dial (847) 221-5860.