When Can a Root Canal Procedure Save a tooth from Extraction

Tooth decay is a common dental concern that becomes severe if not properly treated. If caught early, tooth decay may only require a dental filling. However, if toothaches are persistent and increase in severity over time, this may be cause for concern of major decay.

Ignoring these signs can result in a failed tooth, leading to extracting it in order to save the health of the rest of the smile. Root canal therapy is an option for patients who seek treatment before severity increases with the need of extraction.

Here is how root canal treatments save teeth and why they can often be better than extraction.

Endodontics

Root canal therapy is needed for instances of decay that have reached the dental pulp chamber and roots. The purpose of root canal therapy is to save the natural tooth to prevent the need for extraction.

Signs and symptoms for root canal therapy is a persistent and severe toothache, abscess (or a pimple at the surface of the gums), and a large cavity or crack in the enamel. Root canal therapy removes the infected dental pulp, cleans the edges of the chamber and roots to ensure no bacteria is left and is sealed with a biocompatible material called gutta percha. The dentist then provides a custom crown to prevent further decay and restore the structure of the tooth.

Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy allows patients the benefit of keeping their natural teeth. When teeth are lost and replaced with a traditional restoration such as a fixed bridge, the tooth roots that support the jaw bone health are not replaced.

A lost tooth leads to 40-60 percent bone loss in just three years. Root canal therapy retains the health of the tooth from root to crown while maintaining the structure of the tooth. Patients can chew and speak comfortably, and do not need to return for additional treatments for restoration placement.

When Would a Tooth Need an Extraction?

Extractions are necessary when the dentist deems the tooth unable to be saved. This procedure is cheaper than root canal therapy, but the cost of restoring replacing the tooth and maintaining adequate gum health can outweigh the savings an extraction would offer. Extraction is necessary if decay is persistent and can infect the rest of the smile.

Determining the best method of treating a decayed tooth requires the advice of a dentist. Visit our dentist for checkups twice a year to prevent the need for major procedures. Schedule a visit today!