Is it Better to Have a Root Canal Or Tooth Extraction?
Whether you are thinking about having a root canal or a tooth extraction, it’s important to know the differences and why each is important. While there are several different procedures, both are good options for those with a damaged tooth. Both procedures will alleviate pain and restore your teeth. Both procedures are also considered to be relatively low-cost compared to other dental procedures.
Cost
A root canal can be a more affordable option than a tooth extraction. However, there are many factors to consider when determining the cost of a root canal. The cost of a root canal varies based on where you live and the type of dental office you visit. It also varies by the number of teeth involved in the procedure.
Most dental insurance plans will pay for a portion of the cost of a root canal. However, these plans vary widely and may have co-pays and deductibles. Dental offices may also offer a payment plan. You may save on the cost of a root canal if you pay upfront. However, these plans will not cover the cost of a root canal if your tooth is missing.
Time
Having a root canal or tooth extraction can be difficult. Some people need to go through this procedure to save their teeth. Others may need to be removed because of a medical condition. Regardless of your situation, it is important to understand what to expect from the procedure.
During the process, the dentist will numb the affected tooth. The tooth is then covered in a rubber or vinyl sheet. A hole is then drilled into the enamel to reach the pulp. The dentist then cleans and disinfects the pulp and then removes it.
After the procedure is complete, the tooth is covered with a crown. This crown will protect the tooth and will provide support. A few weeks after the procedure, the dentist will permanently fill the tooth.
Pain
Your dentist may recommend taking pain medications during a root canal or tooth extraction. Ibuprofen is a common medication used to relieve pain. If these medications don’t control your pain, your dentist may prescribe stronger pain relievers. Alternatively, you can use a cold pack to help reduce inflammation.
After a root canal, your tooth may feel tender for a few days. You may also have swelling around the root. This is normal and will go away over time. You should avoid chewing on the treated tooth. You may also be instructed to avoid hard and chewy foods for the first few days.
Your dentist may also recommend antibiotics to help speed up the healing process. If your pain is persistent, you may be prescribed a stronger pain reliever, making you tired.
Symptoms of an infected tooth
Symptoms of an infected tooth can include fever, pain, swelling of the face, neck, and jaw, as well as a bad taste in the mouth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other body parts. This can lead to other health problems, such as meningitis.
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should visit your dentist as soon as possible. Symptoms of an infected tooth may be life-threatening if left untreated. This infection can also spread to other body parts, including the spinal cord, the brain, and the bones.
An untreated tooth infection can also lead to a condition known as sepsis, which is a serious bacterial infection. People with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk of developing sepsis. Other signs of sepsis include high fever, rapid heart rate, mental confusion, and skin mottling.
Aftercare
Whether you have had a root canal or a tooth extraction, you must follow the right aftercare steps to speed up the healing process and decrease the chance of complications. While the aftercare steps may vary from patient to patient, they will all revolve around protecting the extraction site and promoting clotting.
The most important part of aftercare is maintaining a blood clot in the extraction site. This helps to prevent painful complications and protect the exposed nerve endings and bone. To help form a clot, the dentist may gently place gauze at the site and instruct the patient to bite down on it for a few hours. The other part of aftercare is to keep the site clean. To do this, the dentist may use a salt water solution to rinse any food debris.
