Root Canal vs Tooth Extraction: Which Is Better?
When a tooth starts hurting badly, one of the first thoughts many people have is, “Do I need a root canal, or will the tooth have to be removed?” It is a common concern, especially when the pain makes eating, sleeping, or concentrating difficult. The good news is that severe tooth pain does not automatically mean the tooth needs to be extracted. In many situations, a damaged or infected tooth can still be saved with root canal treatment. However, extraction can sometimes be the better option when a tooth is too damaged to restore. Understanding the difference between these two treatments can help you have a more informed conversation with your dentist. What Is a Root Canal? A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or inflammation inside a tooth. The inside of a tooth contains soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When deep decay, a crack, or an injury allows bacteria to reach the pulp, it can become inflamed or infected. This may lead t...