If you’ve been told you need a root canal, you might think, ‘ Can’t I just have the tooth taken out?’ We hear this question all the time at our specialist root canal clinic in Richmond and understand the dilemma patients face.
When a tooth is badly infected or damaged, patients often have two options: extraction or root canal treatment. There’s no wrong choice here, but your decision should be based on what’s best for your long-term oral health.
Here’s what you should know before deciding.
What’s The Difference Between Root Canal Treatment & Extraction?
- A root canal removes infected tissue from inside the tooth, cleans the area, seals and restores it, often with a crown.
- Extraction removes the entire tooth. It’s a faster, cheaper option but creates a gap that can lead to bite issues, shifting teeth and even bone loss over time.
Is It Better To Have A Root Canal?
Generally, saving your natural tooth is always the better option. That’s because:
- A natural tooth supports the positioning of the teeth surrounding it, so it maintains your bite.
- Tooth roots stimulate the jawbone. Without them, the bone can deteriorate.
- It’s a more cost-effective solution as patients with extraction gaps often require implants, dentures, or bridges further down the line.
When Might Extraction Be Appropriate?
Sometimes root canal treatment isn’t possible, for example:
- The tooth is too badly fractured to restore.
- There’s not enough tooth structure left.
- The patient is medically unable to undergo the procedure.
- The patient is planning to receive a full-arch restoration or dentures.
Smile Saving Treatment at the Root Canal Dental Centre, Richmond
Our dental clinic in Richmond, London, specialises in root canal treatment and regularly receives referrals for more complex cases. So, if you’re unsure whether to proceed with endodontic treatment or extraction and need some advice, that’s exactly what we’re here for. We don’t push for one treatment over another. Instead, we provide honest assessments and guidance to help you decide based on the health of your smile.
”I had a root canal done with Dr Nicolai Orsteen and couldn't be more pleased with the experience. He was incredibly professional, gentle, and clearly explained every step of the procedure, which really put me at ease. The treatment was painless and efficient, and the aftercare advice was very thorough. The receptionist, Jasmin, was friendly and supportive throughout. Highly recommend to anyone needing root canal treatment!
If you are experiencing dental pain or have been told you require a root canal, don’t wait. Get in touch with the endodontic specialists at the Root Canal Dental Referral Centre. Simply phone 020 8050 0351.
