Root Canal therapy is also called endodontic therapy. It is a dental treatment in which your dentist or endodontist removes the bacteria infecting the pulp or the tooth's nerve chamber.
Tooth extractions are another common method for addressing severe tooth decay. Unlike root canal treatment (RCT), tooth extraction does not restore the tooth. Instead, the procedure involves removing the tooth from the mouth, eliminating the decay in the process.
While the two techniques will fix your tooth, dental specialists at our dental clinic in Merrifield, VA, generally suggest a root canal first. Root canals can be inexpensive, quicker, and simpler than the other options. Besides this, abstaining from paying for an implant or managing moving teeth, a root canal is the best approach.
A root canal is needed when the tooth's pulp becomes infected or damaged due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma. Symptoms may include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, and swelling. Early intervention with a root canal can save the tooth.
Tooth extraction becomes necessary in severe damage, extensive decay, or overcrowding. Extraction may be the preferred solution if a tooth is beyond repair or poses a risk to surrounding teeth.
When discussing whether you should have a root canal versus extraction, everything comes down to the condition of your tooth. If the general structure of the tooth is still strong, then a root canal is for you. But, if the tooth’s structure is not healthy and flawless, you should have an extraction.