We all understand the importance of taking care of our teeth and gums. But a large majority of us aren’t dental professionals; when an accident occurs, if you have an infection or a fragmented tooth, it can be hard to know what sort of treatment is best. Two processes that are often associated with one another but differ in their purpose is a root canal and tooth extraction.

Each procedure is a means of restorative dentistry. However, they repair your oral health in different ways. For more information about tooth extraction and root canal therapy in SE Edmonton, contact our local dental practice.

What is a Root Canal?

Residing inside the center of all your teeth is a fleshy sack that’s known as the pulp. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues, all of which deliver nutrients and minerals to help keep your tooth alive. When your pulp becomes infected or damaged, this causes you to feel immense sensitivity and pain. As a result, it needs to be removed so the remaining part of your tooth can be mended, and this is done by means of a root canal.

Root canal therapy can also be performed on an abscessed tooth and a tooth that’s severely cracked or chipped. Whatever the reasons, this procedure is an effective solution that will restore the functionality of your tooth and your entire smile now and in the long term.

This is a surgical process and requires at least two separate appointments to complete. During your initial visit, your dentist in SE Edmonton will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth and take a series of x-rays too. This allows them to put together an in-depth picture of your oral health and the level of care you need.

Next, you’ll be given local anesthesia to keep you fully relaxed while your dentist works. The surgical site will be cleaned and then a dental drill will be employed to access your pulp. Once all the infected material has been removed, your tooth will be sealed.

You’ll need to return later to have a dental crown placed. This is a customized cap that both protects and reinforces the strength of your tooth.

To learn more about this treatment, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist or endodontist. They’ll be able to answer any questions you have.

What is a Tooth Extraction?

In comparison, a tooth extraction is exactly as the name implies: it’s the process of having your tooth pulled from its socket. Unlike a root canal, which aims to save as much of your tooth as possible, a tooth extraction is usually performed when your tooth can no longer be preserved.

A tooth extraction is also a surgical process, but it only requires a single appointment. Your dentist will perform an exam and take x-rays in this situation as well, before providing you with the local anesthesia. Depending on whether your tooth is partially or fully erupted, an incision will be made into your gums to access your affected tooth better. Dental forceps are used to rock your tooth back and forth, getting it loose inside the socket before it’s completely extracted. Finally, the surgical site will be stitched up, and voila! All done!

Don’t be afraid to let your dentist know if you require any further care.

So, Which is Better? A Root Canal or Tooth Extraction?

In simple terms, no dental procedure is better than another. It all depends on your oral health situation, the degree of care that you need to get things back to normal, and what your dentist recommends.

With that said, always be sure to book a consultation with a dentist near you before you commit to any type of dental treatment. They’ll be able to identify what avenue of care is best for your unique case and walk you through the process from start to finish.

A root canal is usually the procedure that’s recommended first because it allows you to maintain as much of your natural tooth as possible. If such is not possible, either a simple or a complex tooth extraction will most likely be recommended.

Are you looking to receive convenient treatment for a tooth extraction or root canal therapy near you? If so, we’ve got you covered! At The Meadows Dental Clinic, our staff is ready and willing to assist you with all your oral health needs. We’re here to walk alongside side you on your dental journey. Call, come in, or visit our website to book an appointment and get started today!