When you are experiencing a severe toothache, all you want is for the pain to stop. Your first thought might be that you just want the evil tooth out of your mouth but then you start thinking, “should I have my tooth pulled or root canal?”
When you go to see your local dentist, they recommend a root canal. Root canals have a bad reputation as being brutally painful and you might think you’d rather just have it pulled and be done. But, is that really the right choice?
During a tooth extraction, the dentist will numb the area and remove the tooth. During a root canal, a hole is drilled to reach the infected pulp and the pulp and any other infected material are removed. The tooth is then treated with an antibacterial solution and root canal filling.
They are very different procedures with very different outcomes. So, is it better to have a tooth pulled or root canal?
Is Tooth Extraction Safer Than Root Canal?
A root canal is by far the safer option. In the immediate, tooth extraction can lead to damage at the site of the extraction and infection. In the long term, deterioration of the jaw bone occurs after an adult tooth is pulled. A root canal repairs the damage to the tooth and saves the tooth, which prevents this type of deterioration.
What Hurts Worse?
The truth is both a tooth extraction and a root canal can be painful. This is why your dentist will use a numbing agent to help prevent pain during the procedure. With either procedure, your long-term pain should be ended because the root cause of the problem is resolved.
One of the biggest differences in pain is not during the procedure, but afterward. After a root canal, there is some irritation and swelling that may last for the first day or so. An extraction is much more traumatizing to the area. Pain from an extraction generally lasts for about three days and sensitivity remains longer than that.
Ultimately, the pain is not more or less with either procedure as much as it is different. Don’t let a fear of pain make your decision. The decision should be based on the best outcome for your long term oral health.
What Is the Downside of Root Canal?
Millions of root canals are performed in the United States every year and most do not have any major complications at all. However, root canals on the upper first molars and severely damaged teeth may take several visits to finish. Additionally, it is important to understand that a root canal may weaken your tooth. It is important to follow all instructions your dentist gives you after a procedure and attend all follow-up appointments.
How Do You Decide Between a Root Canal and Extraction?
Your dentist will decide if your tooth can be saved by a root canal. Anytime a tooth can be saved it should. This helps to avoid bone loss, infection, and dietary complications that can occur when adult teeth are removed. If you are concerned about having a root canal it is good to discuss this with your dentist so you can have a full understanding of the procedure as well as its benefits.
If you are suffering from a severe toothache or need other dental services, there is help available. Call Bella Dental at (805) 410-1033 and schedule an appointment right away. We’re here to help you with all of your dental needs including veneers, teeth whitening, gum disease and teeth cleaning and dental implants!