How To Choose Between A Root Canal And Extraction?

Tooth extractions and root canals are two different dental care treatments. These procedures are prescribed by the dentist casula when a tooth gets damaged or infected. Both of them have their own level of exertion and post-treatment do’s and don’ts. Learn more about the two methods to choose the option best suited for you. Also, prefer Endodontics London for prevention of diseases of the dental pulp and the surrounding tissues.

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How To Save A Diseased Tooth?

Root canals are recommended for saving a tooth that has become infected or badly decayed. The pulp resides underneath your teeth and supplies blood to them. A damaged tooth or deep cavities may result in pulp decay. Cracks in teeth or tooth decay make way for the bacteria in your mouth into the pulp. This may lead to infection, inflammation, or decaying of the pulp tissues. Such an issue calls for a root canal, which will treat the pulp and keep the tooth intact.

When To Extract A Tooth?

At times the tooth decay is too severe for the dentist to save your tooth. Under such conditions, an extraction is the best option for improving your oral health. For instance, a large dental cavity damages the tooth structure to a great extent making it unfit for repair. Another condition that calls for extraction is a major tooth fracture in which the crack has reached below the gum-line. According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), such a tooth requires extraction as any other treatment will not be able to repair it.

Root Canal: Process And Medical Care

The procedure of a root canal is quite easy to follow. The area around the affected tooth will be numbed using local anesthesia, and the infected or dead pulp will be removed. After removing the pulp, the pulp chambers will be cleaned off to ensure no trace of bacteria remains. The hollow pulp chambers will now be sealed up using a dental material called “gutta-percha.” Then a dental crown will be fixed over the treated tooth to improve its appearance and strength. You might require more than one visit, depending upon the severity of your dental condition and the complexity of the treatment.

Post root canal, it is normal for the patient to experience pain around the tooth for a couple of days. The intensity of pain varies from one person to another. It could be a slight stinging sensation to an acute toothache. This can be mitigated with prescribed painkillers and maintaining proper dental hygiene. If acute pain persists after medication, it is advisable to see your dentist as early as possible. Following the root canal, you will be informed if you require further check-ups.

Tooth Extraction: Method And Medical Care

During an extraction, the affected area will be numbed so that the process does not cause any discomfort. The dentist casula will loosen the tooth from its socket by picking at its root using a dental elevator and push it upward to dislodge it. Next, the dentist will move the tooth back and forth using forceps and pull it out. Apart from a certain amount of pressure around the tooth, you will not feel any pain or discomfort.

Following a tooth extraction, the American Dental Association (ADA) advises you to bite on a piece of gauze to clot the natural flow of blood. Light bleeding and slight facial swelling are common side effects and might stay for up to a day or two. Use ice packs over the swollen area to lessen the inflammation. When you resume eating post tooth extraction, stick to soft food that does not irritate the extraction site. You can gradually shift to your normal diet once the site has completely healed.

Under normal conditions, it may take around two weeks for the extraction area to heal. Ensure that you use a toothbrush with soft bristles that are gentle on your gums and prevent irritation.

Making The Final Decision

After checking your damaged tooth, your dentist will suggest a suitable treatment based on their prognosis. You may talk to the dentist about your queries regarding the recommended method. If concerned about the pain of the root canal, the dentist will assure you that it is less painful than extraction. For concerns regarding the expenses, your dentist may recommend affordable alternative treatments that will serve your purpose.

The choice between root canal and extraction may be a tough one, but your dentist will surely guide you through the process.