A Guide to Root Canal Treatment versus Tooth Extraction

The enamel that covers our teeth is harder than skeletal bone. However, it is still vulnerable to damage caused by conditions such as tooth decay and traumatic injuries. 

 When damage occurs, the protective enamel exposes the softer dentin layer underneath and can make the nerves, blood vessels, and tissue inside the tooth susceptible to infection. In such cases, Endodontic Consultants of San Antonio can treat the infection with root canal treatment (RCT), which involves removing the infected nerves and tissue from inside the tooth, then filling and sealing the space that is created.

Root canal vs. tooth extraction – which is better?

Root canal treatment removes the infection from inside the tooth and relieves the pain caused by the infection and  prevents further complications. The tooth is preserved and restored to health. Without RCT, the tooth might need to be extracted. 

Our specialists, Dr. Rick Davis, Dr. Rick Schwartz and Dr. Zac Liang sometimes provide root canal retreatment. This RCT “re-do” may be recommended when a tooth with previous root canal treatment failed to heal properly. In this situation we sometimes recommend surgical treatment options. The most common surgery is known as “apicoectomy” or  “root-end resection.” During this procedure the tips of the affected roots are removed and a small filling is placed in the root end to seal it. Infected tissue around the root tips is also removed. This process is appropriate for some patients with persistent infections. 

Procedures to “save” damaged teeth are generally preferred over extraction because they are:

• Less aggressive
• Associated with a high rate of successful treatment
• More economical than tooth replacement options, such as dental implants
• A durable and lasting way to restore a tooth’s natural function and appearance
• A healthy alternative to larger and more complex procedures
• Tolerated well with a local anesthetic, administered gently and slowly for utmost comfort
• An effective way to strengthen a tooth that is weak due to decay, cracks, and other damage
• Often, a “one-and-done” procedure – no further treatment necessary!

At Endodontic Consultants, we offer nonsurgical and surgical root canal treatment to save your teeth. Our specialists will thoroughly evaluate your tooth and suggest the most suitable option to alleviate pain and infection. To schedule an appointment at our San Antonio, TX office, please call (210) 405-0473 today.