Your oral health has a direct impact on your overall health. This is why it is important to care for your oral health, especially if you experience symptoms associated with decay or damage. Decay and damage require prompt treatment. Two common procedures include root canals and extractions. You may wonder, will I need a root canal or tooth extraction? Below, you will find more information on each procedure.
Will I need a root canal or tooth extraction?
Dental issues impact the vast majority of the population. In fact, over 90% of people ages 20 to 64 experience tooth decay. The type of treatment you need depends on your symptoms and the severity of your oral health issue. Root canals and tooth extractions are dental procedures that address damaged or infected teeth. However, they differ in significant ways. Consider the following differences between a root canal and extraction.
Root Canal:
A root canal is a procedure designed to save your natural tooth. This treatment is used to address a tooth severely affected by decay or infection. A root canal involves the removal of the innermost portion of your tooth, referred to as the pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerve fibers, and connective tissues. These are removed and the area is cleaned and disinfected. Once clean, the area is sealed to prevent further infection.
The benefit of a root canal is that it preserves nature. Depending on the structure of your tooth, you may need a cap after your root canal. Your dentist can discuss your treatment options before your root canal. A root canal does not impact the appearance or function of your tooth. You can easily speak, chew, and bite down as you did before. A root canal in Rialto is an effective treatment that can ensure your smile stays healthy and intact.
Tooth Extraction:
An extraction may be necessary if a root canal cannot address your oral health issue. An extraction involves the complete removal of the damaged or infected tooth. This is often necessary when the tooth is impacted by severe decay, damage, or infection. Despite losing your natural tooth, the procedure may be necessary to preserve your overall oral health.
After an extraction leaves a gap between your teeth, it is important to replace the missing tooth. Failing to replace it can affect your speech and digestion and impact your self-confidence. In addition, it can lead to facial changes if left untreated. A skilled dentist can provide effective tooth replacement options to restore the function and appearance of your smile.
Symptoms That Require Dental Attention
There are a number of symptoms that require attention from a dental professional. Consider the following symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal or extraction. Seek dental attention immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms.
- Pain: Discomfort or pain while chewing can be a sign of serious dental issues
- Swelling: Inflammation or swelling around one of your teeth or gums is a sign of an infection
- Sensitivity: Temperature sensitivity is a sign of oral health issues that require prompt treatment
- Toothaches: A toothache of any kind requires treatment no matter if they are severe or mild, or constant or intermittent
- Pus: An abscess or pus coming from your gums is a sign of severe oral health issues that require prompt treatment
Dental Treatment
If you experience any of the symptoms above, contact a dental professional right away. The team at Baseline Dental Care is skilled in restorative dentistry treatments, including root canals and extractions. They have helped countless patients restore their smiles and improve their oral health. Contact their team today to schedule an appointment!
