When a tooth is badly infected, the choice is usually between root canal treatment to save it or taking it out. Extraction can seem simpler, but it’s rarely the end of the story. Here’s how to weigh it up.
Keeps your own tooth. Usually needs a crown afterwards on back teeth.
Removes the problem in one visit, but leaves a gap to think about.
An implant, bridge or denture adds cost and time after an extraction.
Keeping your own tooth is usually the first thing we look at, as long as it has a reasonable outlook.
Sometimes saving a tooth isn’t the right call. We’ll tell you honestly if that’s the case.
Leaving a gap can let nearby teeth tip or drift over time. If you’re considering extraction, ask what replacing the tooth would involve before deciding. Root canal treatment can be done under sedation if you’re anxious.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. This page is general information only and not a substitute for an examination. Individual results vary.
The tooth is numbed first, so most people feel pressure rather than pain. It often relieves the pain the infection was causing.
Back teeth become brittle after root canal treatment, and a crown helps protect them from splitting.
Antibiotics don’t fix the source of a tooth infection. The tooth still needs treatment or removal.
Many root canals are done in the practice. Complex teeth may be referred, and we’ll explain why.
Book an examination. We’ll take x-rays and explain both options honestly.