Is it better to get a root canal or extraction?

When faced with severe tooth pain or infection, many people find themselves at a crossroads: Should I get a root canal or have the tooth extracted? This is a common dilemma in dental care, and the answer depends on several factors—including the condition of your tooth, long-term oral health goals, and budget.

Let’s explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision.

 What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal in islamabad is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, cleans and disinfects the root canals, and then seals the space. This treatment preserves your natural tooth and eliminates pain caused by infection or inflammation.

 Benefits of a Root Canal:

• Saves the natural tooth

• Maintains your bite and jaw alignment

• Less invasive than extraction + replacement

• High success rate when done properly

• Often completed in 1–2 visits

 Considerations:

• May require a crown afterward (added cost)

• Can be slightly more expensive upfront than extraction

• Not suitable if the tooth is too badly damaged

 What Is a Tooth Extraction?

A tooth extraction involves the complete removal of a tooth from the socket. It’s usually recommended when a tooth is beyond repair, severely decayed, or causing overcrowding.

Benefits of Extraction:

• Quick and simple procedure in many cases

• May be necessary for severely damaged or loose teeth

• Often less expensive in the short term

 Considerations:

• Leaves a gap in your smile (which can affect chewing and confidence)

• Can lead to shifting of nearby teeth

• Requires a replacement solution (implant, bridge, or denture) for long-term oral health

• Bone loss in the jaw over time if not replaced

 So, Which Is Better?

In most cases, dentists recommend saving the natural tooth through a root canal if it's still viable. Keeping your original tooth helps maintain proper chewing, jawbone strength, and natural appearance.

However, if the tooth is too severely damaged, cracked below the gum line, or has repeated infections, extraction may be the only option. In such cases, replacing the tooth with an implant or bridge is important to avoid long-term dental issues.

 Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The decision between a root canal and extraction should be made in consultation with your dentist, based on X-rays, the condition of the tooth, and your personal preferences.

While root canals aim to preserve, extractions are about removing and replacing. The best choice is the one that ensures your long-term oral health and comfort.