Dental experts can treat damaged or infected teeth by using either root canal therapy or tooth extraction. Although choosing between root canal and extraction might be challenging, learning more about each procedure can aid with your decision.

When Should They Be Extracted, If Ever?

Occasionally a tooth needs to be extracted because your dentist is unable to save it. This might be the situation if you have a significant cavity that weakens your tooth beyond repair by compromising too much of its structural integrity. The best course of action may be extraction if your tooth has a significant fracture. A tooth that has a break that extends below the gumline is another strong candidate for extraction.

When Are Teeth Saveable?

Root canal therapy can save teeth that are otherwise healthy but have damaged, infected, or dead pulp. The pulp, which is located in the innermost layer of your teeth and ensures that each tooth receives a healthy supply of blood, may be harmed by a deep cavity or a broken tooth. Both of these circumstances make way for oral bacteria to enter your pulp, which can in turn cause the essential tissue of the pulp to die, swelling, or infection.

Dental Extraction: The Technique and Follow-Up

Your dentist will numb the region if you need to have the tooth pulled so you won't experience any pain. Subsequently, while your tooth remains in its socket, a lever-like equipment called an elevator will be used by the dentist to extract it. Forceps will then be used to formally extract the tooth. When this is happening, you should anticipate to feel some pressure, but nothing that makes you feel less comfortable overall.

You will bite on a piece of gauze for up to 45 minutes after your tooth is removed in order to stop the natural blood flow. A little facial swelling and light bleeding for the first 24 hours following the treatment are usual, however the swelling can be reduced with cold packs. Stick to soft, cool meals when you first start eating again so as not to aggravate the extraction site. When you recuperate, you can gradually resume your regular diet.

The healing process for the extraction site typically takes at least two weeks, during which time you should softly brush your teeth to prevent further aggravation.

Root Canals: The Procedure,Treatment, and Aftercare

Root canal therapy is really quite simple: As a first step, your dentist will numb the affected area before creating an incision in the damaged tooth and extracting any diseased or dead pulp. The pulp chambers will be meticulously cleaned after the pulp has been extracted to make sure no bacteria are left behind. The dental substance "gutta-percha," which repairs your damaged pulp, will next be placed inside the pulp chambers. The tooth may receive a crown to assist improve its strength and aesthetics. Depending on the specifics of your case, a root canal frequently requires multiple visits.

It's typical to experience some pain for a few days following your treatment. This discomfort may be subtle or severe or acute. Despite the pain, you should be able to control it with an over-the-counter painkiller. Do not hesitate to consult your dental expert if your discomfort is too severe for self-care or if it disappears then reappears.

Which The Best Option For You

Your dental professional will advise the best course of action after inspecting your infected or damaged tooth based on their experience. Affordable dental services like those provided by nearby dentistry schools are an excellent alternative if you're worried about the cost of getting a root canal. Making the decision between a root canal and extraction can be challenging, but a dental expert can guide you in making the best decision for you and your tooth.

Always ask your dentist, doctor, or other knowledgeable healthcare professional for assistance. Call us at (714) 638-9370 for more details or to make an appointment.