5 Reasons to Choose a Root Canal Over a Dental Extraction

When you are experiencing significant dental pain or have developed an infection, you may wonder if you should opt for a root canal versus having the tooth extracted. At Pleasant Hill Dental in Pleasant Hill, California, Dr. Cheng Zhu provides expert dental care, including root canal therapy, to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. Here are the top five reasons a root canal is often the better choice over an extraction.

1. Saves Your Natural Tooth

One of the biggest advantages of a root canal is that it allows you to keep your natural tooth. Tooth extraction leaves a gap that may require a dental implant or bridge to restore function and appearance. Preserving your natural tooth helps maintain proper chewing ability and jawbone health. Additionally, keeping your natural tooth means avoiding the potential discomfort and inconvenience of wearing a replacement.

2. Prevents Bone Loss

When a tooth is extracted, the surrounding jawbone deteriorates over time due to lack of stimulation. A root canal helps maintain the structure of your jawbone and prevents the long-term consequences of tooth loss, such as shifting teeth and facial changes. Losing a tooth can also lead to difficulties with eating certain foods, affecting overall nutrition and quality of life.

3. Less Pain and Faster Recovery

Contrary to popular belief, modern root canals are relatively painless and comparable to getting a dental filling. Tooth extractions, on the other hand, can involve a more invasive procedure, especially if the tooth is impacted. Recovery from a root canal is typically quicker and less painful than extraction. Patients who undergo extractions may also experience a dry socket, a painful condition where the protective blood clot dislodges, leading to intense discomfort.

4. Cost-Effective in the Long Run

While a root canal may seem costly upfront, it is often more expensive in the long run than replacing a missing tooth with a bridge or dental implant. Saving your natural tooth also eliminates the need for additional treatments that can add up over time. The cost of extractions combined with prosthetic replacements can far exceed the expense of a root canal procedure.

5. Maintains Your Natural Smile

Keeping your natural teeth through a root canal means maintaining your smile’s natural appearance. Missing teeth can cause shifting of neighboring teeth, leading to alignment issues. A root canal helps preserve the integrity of your smile and overall oral health. In addition, keeping your teeth can help you maintain clear speech and avoid potential difficulties in pronunciation caused by missing teeth.

Learn More About Root Canals

Don’t rush into an extraction if you’re experiencing severe tooth pain or infection. Dr. Cheng Zhu at Pleasant Hill Dental can evaluate your condition and determine if a root canal is the right solution. Call (925) 693-7077 or visit www.pleasanthilldental.com to schedule an appointment today.

Share this Article