Whenever a tooth can be preserved, it should be. If you have a painful or problematic tooth and are wondering which treatments are best for improving your comfort and health, we have created the following guide on preserving teeth with root canal therapy or removing a failing tooth.
Complications of Extraction
While the spread of decay from a severely damaged tooth is eliminated after extraction, the patient’s oral health will change after the loss of a tooth. Lack of natural tooth roots causes bone in the area to deplete from lack of stimulation, which in turn can cause changes to facial structure and overall appearance.
Remaining teeth can also shift toward the gap left by an extracted tooth if a patient chooses not to wear a prosthetic. Changes in dental alignment can make it hard to bite and chew properly, unevenly distributing force that can quickly wear down dental enamel.
These complications can be addressed by choosing the right replacement for your missing tooth, but extra care does come with an extra cost. When a tooth is too damaged to be saved, replacement cannot be avoided. But if there is enough health enamel, consider a different approach as a first step, instead of outright extraction.
Conservative Dentistry
Root canals remove the source of the infection inside a damaged tooth, so the outer structures can still be saved. During the root canal process, bacteria and damaged pulp are removed and a restoration, usually a crown, is placed on top of the remaining enamel. This allows your tooth to remain strong enough for biting and chewing while preventing the need for extraction. A thorough and effective root canal is a great way to prolong the long-term health of a tooth, maximizing your oral health for as long as possible and significantly delaying the need for more complex care.
Ask us about Dental Care for Problem Teeth!
Our dental team is committed to protecting your dental health and creating a beautiful smile that helps you feel confident. If you have a toothache or a sore tooth, extraction may be not necessary. Ask our team about root canal therapy and what other services are available to keep your smile strong and functional. Call North Star Family Smiles today to schedule your consultation!