When you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, figuring out how to correct the issue can be challenging. Scheduling an appointment with your dentist is the first step you should make to improve your oral health.
It’s not uncommon for the same dental concern to be treated with various methods. If you have severe tooth decay, patients can address this with root canal therapy or if the tooth is beyond saving, an extraction may be the best option. Your dentist can tell you which option is best for you during an appointment, but in the meantime, you can learn more about each procedure to get a better understanding of their benefits and differences.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to eliminate tooth decay that has reached the inner chambers of the tooth beneath the enamel. This endodontic procedure is performed when a tooth is experiencing significant decay but not enough to warrant an extraction.
Root canal therapy starts with your dentist creating a small opening in the enamel to thoroughly clean all traces of diseased pulp from the canals. A cleansing solution is applied to eliminate all traces of infection, then the dentist applies a temporary filling to protect the area while your custom crown is crafted. A final appointment will be necessary for your oral health professional to examine the tooth after treatment and secure your permanent restoration.
What is an Extraction?
An extraction involves removing a severely decayed tooth in order to keep bacteria from spreading. After an extraction, you can replace your tooth with a variety of traditional and implant-supported prosthetics.
An extraction will occur if a tooth is completely unsalvageable. Although this is a surgical procedure, it’s typically performed as an outpatient procedure and patients heal within a matter of days.
What Procedure is Right for You?
Only your dentist can point you in the right direction when it comes to your smile, but there are some ways to tell which procedure is best for your teeth on your own. Root canal therapy typically benefits those who have a tooth that can be saved whereas an extraction is most beneficial if a tooth is beyond saving.
Determining the extent of your tooth decay is a matter of scheduling an appointment with your dentist. After thoroughly examining your x-rays during the consultation, they can identify how extensive the damage is and suggest the most appropriate treatment option.
Call Today to Learn More!
If you would like more information about restorative procedures for your teeth, including root canals and extractions, contact Sutton Dentistry in Ocala today!