What Is the Difference Between a Root Canal and an Extraction?

When you have a bad toothache, it can be tempting to have an extraction just to stop the pain. No more tooth equals no more pain, right? While there are circumstances in which the only option is to remove the tooth, it’s often possible to keep your tooth and be pain-free with a root canal procedure.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is done when the tooth has a deep cavity that reaches the pulp, a large crack, or nerve tissue damage from a traumatic facial injury. First, your dentist will take an X-ray which will show where the damage is located inside the root. Then they will administer local anesthesia, so you don’t feel any pain. They will use a drill to create a small hole and then they will carefully remove the infected pulp through the hole. The hole will be filled with a material called gutta-percha and sealed off with cement. Your dentist will likely place a crown on top of the tooth to make it stronger. A root canal is similar to filling a cavity in terms of sensation because there is little to no pain.

What is an extraction?

An extraction is when a tooth is removed completely. An extraction is necessary when the tooth’s structure is compromised, for example when a cavity or crack extends below the gum line and weakens the tooth. First, your dentist will give you a local anesthetic and then loosen the tooth with a device called an elevator. Then they will use forceps to remove the tooth. You will feel little to no pain, just slight pressure when the tooth is removed.

Not sure whether you need a root canal or an extraction? Schedule an appointment with Cascade Dental Care today and we can help you find out!