A cracked tooth can be a sudden mishap that leaves you in pain. If not treated right away, you can experience tooth sensitivity with nagging pain and might even struggle to eat or chew. Ignoring the problem also increases the risk of suffering from oral infections, abscesses, or tooth loss.
You still have hope! Both root canal and tooth extraction can solve your dental issue. But the real challenge is to choose the right oral treatment for you. Let’s dive deep into the discussion on root canal vs. tooth extraction to make an informed decision.
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Signs That Indicate a Cracked Tooth Needs Treatment
It’s best to not wait for any signs and get immediate treatment for cracked teeth. However, the common symptoms that accompany cracked teeth are:
- Throbbing pain
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Swollen gums around the affected tooth
- Bad breath due to oral infection
Root Canal: Saving a Cracked Tooth
Invented in 1838, root canal therapy saves lives. According to the American Association of Endodontists, over 15 million root canals are performed annually. Nothing comes close to its efficacy in removing infected or damaged pulp while preserving the natural tooth. Dentists clean and seal the vacant gum chamber during root canal to help you heal without the risk of sepsis.
Advantages:
- It lets you keep the natural tooth
- Your jawbone remains in shape
- It eliminates infection without altering your gum structure
- It’s less invasive than complete extraction
Disadvantages:
- It requires multiple dental visits from cleaning the dead pulp to crown placement
- Post-treatment discomfort might be there
- You may still require extraction later if the pulp is not removed right
Extraction: Removing the Cracked Tooth
As the name suggests, it’s tooth removal. Severe tooth cracks that reach the tooth’s root or cause infection beyond repair can require extraction. Dentists remove the tooth completely to prevent the spread of infection.
Advantages:
- Extraction is a quick procedure with immediate pain relief
- It removes the source of infection
- Patients may not need additional dental visits post-treatment
Disadvantages:
- It creates a gap that may shift the surrounding teeth
- It can cause jawbone loss over time
- Patients might require tooth replacement options like implants or bridges for full oral functionality
Healing and Recovery: What to Expect
While the healing process of these two oral treatments often overlap, it’s still a good idea to follow a disparate healing process.
Root Canal:
Let’s check out the best tips to help you heal from a root canal:
- Mild soreness might last a few days
- Patients might return to their old routine within a week
- Crown placement may require additional dentist visits
Extraction:
Similar to a root canal, you also need to abide by a few tips to heal the wound of tooth extraction:
- Swelling and discomfort might stay for a few days
- Healing takes one to two weeks
- Bone loss may occur if the patient doesn’t go for an implant or bridge
Deciding between root canal vs. tooth extraction depends on the tooth’s condition and long-term oral health goals. Root canals save natural teeth, while extractions remove damaged teeth entirely. Consulting a dentist ensures the best treatment plan for individual needs.