When dealing with severe tooth decay or infection, choosing between a root canal and a tooth extraction is a crucial decision. Both procedures aim to relieve pain and protect oral health, but they have different impacts on your dental structure, cost, and long-term benefits. In this guide, we’ll explore how to save a tooth, when extraction is necessary, and key factors that influence your decision.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to treat infected or damaged teeth while preserving the natural structure. The process involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and sealing it with a filling or crown to prevent further infection. Root canals help maintain your smile, chewing ability, and overall oral health.
What is an Extraction Treatment?
A tooth extraction is the complete removal of a tooth from its socket. This procedure is usually done when a tooth is completely decayed, fractured beyond repair, or causing crowding issues. Extractions may be simple or surgical, depending on the complexity of the case. While extractions can eliminate pain and infection, they may require tooth replacement options like implants or bridges to maintain oral function.
When Can Teeth Be Saved?
A root canal can save a tooth from infected or inflamed pulp. The procedure involves removing the damaged pulp, cleaning the inner canals, and sealing the tooth to prevent further infection. Preserving your natural tooth helps maintain your bite alignment, chewing efficiency, and overall oral health.
Signs You Need a Root Canal:
- Persistent tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swollen or tender gums
- Discoloration of the tooth
- Pimple-like swelling on the gums (abscess)
When Should Teeth Be Extracted?
If the tooth is completely decayed, fractured beyond repair, or affected by advanced gum disease, extraction may be the only option. Removing a tooth can prevent infection from spreading and relieve severe pain.
Signs You Need an Extraction:
- Severe decay that cannot be restored with a filling or crown
- A cracked tooth extending below the gumline
- Crowding or impacted wisdom teeth
- Advanced periodontal disease
Procedure and Aftercare
What Happens During a Root Canal?
- The dentist administers local anesthesia to numb the area.
- The infected pulp is removed, and the canals are cleaned and disinfected.
- The tooth is sealed with a filling and often covered with a crown for protection.
- Recovery includes mild discomfort for a few days, manageable with pain relievers.
What Happens During a Tooth Extraction?
- Local anesthesia is applied to numb the tooth and surrounding area.
- The dentist carefully removes the tooth using specialized tools.
- Stitches may be needed if the extraction is complex.
- Aftercare includes avoiding hard foods, not smoking, and keeping the area clean to prevent infection.
Making Your Decision: Key Factors to Consider
1. Severity of Infection or Decay
If the tooth has deep decay but its structure is mostly intact, a root canal can save it. However, if the decay is too extensive, extraction may be necessary.
2. How Much of the Tooth Is Affected?
If the damage is limited to the pulp, a root canal is ideal. If the tooth is fractured or has lost too much structure, extraction is a better option.
3. Cost Comparison
Root canals are initially more expensive but save money in the long run by preserving the tooth. Extractions cost less upfront, but replacing the tooth with an implant or bridge can be costly.
| Treatment | Cost in India | Cost in Australia | Cost in New Zealand |
| Root Canal | $18 – $150 | $1,500 – $3,000 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Extraction | $10 – $100 | $200 – $600 | $250 – $700 |
| Implant (after extraction) | $500 – $1,500 | $3,000 – $6,000 | $3,500 – $6,500 |
4. Functionality and Aesthetics
A root canal preserves your natural tooth, allowing you to chew normally. If a tooth is extracted and not replaced, nearby teeth may shift, affecting your bite and facial structure.
5. Pain and Recovery Time
Both procedures relieve pain, but recovery differs:
- Root canals may cause mild discomfort for a few days.
- Extractions have a longer healing process, especially if an implant is required later.
Special Considerations
Root Canal vs. Extraction for Back Molars
Back molars are crucial for chewing and overall oral function. Saving them with a root canal is often recommended as losing a molar can affect jaw alignment and cause remaining teeth to shift. However, if the tooth is too damaged, extraction followed by an implant or bridge may be necessary to restore function.
Baby Root Canal vs. Extraction
For children, saving a baby tooth with a pulpotomy (baby root canal) is preferred to maintain space for permanent teeth. Losing a baby tooth too early can lead to misalignment issues. However, if the baby tooth is severely decayed or infected, extraction may be the best option to prevent further oral health complications.
Wisdom Teeth Considerations
Wisdom teeth often require extraction due to lack of space, impaction, or repeated infections. Unlike other teeth, wisdom teeth do not need replacement after extraction. However, if they are healthy and properly aligned, keeping them may be beneficial.
Multiple Extractions vs. Full-Mouth Restoration
In cases of widespread dental decay, multiple extractions may be required, leading to the need for full-mouth restoration with dentures, implants, or bridges. This decision should be made carefully with a dental professional to maintain oral function and aesthetics.
Root Canal Treatment Abroad
Many people opt for dental treatment abroad due to lower costs and high-quality care. India has become a major destination for dental tourism, offering world-class root canal treatments at a fraction of the cost in Australia or New Zealand. Patients also benefit from shorter waiting times and access to highly skilled dental professionals.
Conclusion: Should You Save or Extract Your Tooth?
If possible, saving your natural tooth with a root canal is the best option for long-term oral health. However, if the damage is too severe, extraction may be necessary. Consulting a professional dentist will help you make the right decision for your dental health.
Book an appointment today at Dr. Teeth, Mumbai, and restore your smile!
