When a tooth becomes infected down to the pulp, the dental patient has the choice of either a root canal procedure or an extraction. Leaving the condition untreated is dangerous, as the infection may spread into the rest of the body. The patient will quickly need to make a decision on how to proceed.

The Truth About Tooth Extraction
It is a common belief that having a tooth extracted is an acceptable alternative to having a root canal done. Extractions are faster, less complicated and do not cost as much as root canal procedures, but there are certain changes that may result from an extraction.

After a tooth has been removed, it leaves a space in the gums. This may cause the teeth around the space to shift into it, affecting the patient’s bite and possibly causing temporomandibular joint disorder. The remaining teeth may also become crooked and more likely to develop problems over the long term.

To help patients avoid these outcomes, the dentist may suggest having the tooth replaced. This can involve building a bridge to support the artificial tooth or using an implant. Either procedure will prevent the shifting of remaining teeth and help the patient maintain proper chewing function. A dental implant is more expensive than a root canal, as it involves work to the gum tissue and surrounding teeth. The cost of an implant can be as much as $4,000.

The Truth About Root Canals
In most cases, saving the natural tooth is a better solution than extraction. In a root canal procedure, the infected tooth is cleaned, the nerve removed and the space permanently filled to preserve the structure.

In many cases, a root canal can be completed in a single office visit with little to no discomfort. In situations where the tooth is badly infected, multiple appointments may be necessary to ensure the infection has cleared before the tooth is sealed. The final step of a root canal involves the placing of a filling or a crown, depending on the general condition of the tooth.

Root canals have a fairly high success rate and can often last a lifetime. If the procedure should fail, it can be repeated, or the patient can opt for endodontic surgery. A root canal procedure is always preferable to an extraction if the remaining tooth structure can support it. In rare cases, it may a better choice to remove the tooth.

After an examination and assessment of the affected tooth, the dentist can explain all the options and help the patient make the correct choice.

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/root-canals