Going to the dentist and learning that there’s a problem with your teeth can invoke fear in just about anyone. Whether you went in because you’re in pain or because it was time for a checkup, you’ll need to pay close attention to what the dentist is saying.
Damaged or infected teeth can cause serious pain and negatively impact your overall health. Getting prompt treatment is critical. There are two primary treatments for damaged or infected — root canals or tooth extractions. A root canal is a procedure that’s used to try to preserve a tooth. A tooth extraction is the removal of the tooth.
Understanding a bit about each of these options can help you to make a decision about which option you’d prefer. There are times when there isn’t an option because the tooth is so damaged that it can’t be saved.
A root canal is an endodontic procedure that’s aimed at preserving the tooth. Each tooth has a center made of pulp that’s surrounded by a hardened layer of dentin. That’s encased with enamel. If there's damage to the dentin or enamel, infection can enter into the pulp of the tooth. Pulp is only necessary when the tooth is still maturing because it provides nutrients for the tooth. A fully matured tooth doesn’t need the pulp to stay viable.
During a root canal, the endodontist numbs the area around the affected tooth. They create a pinhole opening in the crown of the tooth. They clean the pulp and create a canal with tiny instruments. The dental professional uses a special material known as gutta-percha to fill the space, which prevents reinfection from occurring.
The endodontist fills the pinhole opening with a temporary filling to seal off the tooth. All of this can take one or more visits to complete, based on the patient’s specific situation.
You’ll have to be careful after the root canal because the tooth is a bit weaker than your normal teeth. Try not to chew on the affected side of the mouth until you visit your regular dentist.
After the patient is released from the endodontist’s care, they can visit their regular dentist to have a crown placed on the tooth. This helps to strengthen the tooth and provide a more natural appearance. You can treat the affected tooth as you would any other tooth.
Tooth extraction is the preferred method for treating a tooth that has a severe fracture or if the cavity or damaged area is so big that it compromises the structure of the tooth in a way that makes it too weak to repair.
During a tooth extraction, the dentist will numb the area. This is usually done with a local anesthetic that’s injected into the gum. In some cases, general anesthesia or other types of sedation might be necessary.
Once you’re numbed, the dentist will loosen the tooth with an instrument known as an elevator. They’ll use forceps to pull the tooth out. You may feel some pressure when they do this but you shouldn’t feel pain.
After the tooth is out, the dentist will apply a piece of gauze to the area. You’ll bite on it to help stop the bleeding. You can expect to have light bleeding for up to 24 hours after the procedure. You may also experience some swelling, but this is usually controlled with ice packs.
The dentist may prescribe pain-relieving medications or recommend over-the-counter medications. Take those as directed so you can have optimal pain relief. While you may feel pain and discomfort for a few days after the procedure, you should notice it diminish. If your pain increases or becomes severe, you should contact the dentist or visit your local emergency room.
You’ll have to be careful when you eat and drink in the days following the extraction. Avoid sucking on a straw because the suction could lead to increased bleeding. Try to avoid eating hard foods because they can irritate the tooth socket. Softer foods that are cooler allow the area to heal.
It can take up to two weeks for an extraction to fully heal. During this time, you should treat the area with care. Lightly brush your teeth so that you can continue good oral health without negatively impacting the extraction area.
You’ll have to talk to your dentist to determine whether a tooth extraction or a root canal is a better option. In some cases, such as when there is a crack in the tooth, patients may be given the option to have the tooth extracted instead of trying to save it by using a root canal.
If the tooth is severely damaged, a root canal might not be possible. In that case, an extraction is the best option for the situation. People who have an extraction may have dental implants or a dental bridge to restore the smile.
Dentists will usually try to save a tooth using a root canal because they view a tooth extraction as a last resort. The decision about which one of these should be made with your dentist. The dentist will discuss the condition of the tooth and the possible side effects and outcomes with you so you can make the decision you feel is in your best interests.
Looking for a clear path to overall general health and wellness? Better oral hygiene can be a powerful determinant of a healthier and happier life. Pearly is the world's first oral health management app. Download to get started today.
