Root Canal vs. Extraction: Which Is the Best Option for a Cracked Tooth?

Did you crack your tooth while having your favorite snack? Now you have to make a choice: do you want to preserve your tooth with a root canal or get a tooth extraction? Making this choice for your oral wewll-being can actually be very overhwlming. Your decision will also largely impact the aesthetics of your smile.

Read this blog to learn which procedure will suit you the best if you have a cracked tooth and factors to consider.

What Happens When You Crack Your Tooth?

A broken tooth is an emergency that could cause severe issues if not addressed. The crack allows bacteria to enter the inner pulp, infecting it. You might also experience severe pain because of this dental mishap. 

So if you do have damaged teeth it’s best to see a dentist and decide the best course of action.

Root Canal: Saving What’s Yours

A root canal can give your tooth a second lease on life. In this procedure, the dentist will remove the infected pulp, clean the tooth canal, and seal it up with a biocompatible filling. Choose this if  :

• There is nothing better than your own natural teeth. Go for this process if you want to preserve your natural tooth structure.
• Thanks to technology, this treatment is nearly painless. You will definitely experience less pain than with tooth extractions.
• Although it might be expensive at first, saving your tooth means you do not have to undergo additional surgeries for implants or bridges.
• Your post-procedure crowns will match your smile perfectly, with no gaps.

This option is particularly useful if your tooth is not too infected and if the crack is not too wide. You can maintain your original bite force and oral functions.

Tooth Extraction: The Final Option

Sometimes, saving a cracked tooth is impossible. Consider this aspect before making your choice:

• Tooth extractions will immediately wipe out any pain or discomfort with the complete removal of the affected teeth.
• One downside is that the gap left by your missing tooth might result in the shifting of neighboring teeth, disrupting your bite and smile.
• You can prevent complications such as bone loss or difficulty chewing with replacement options like implants or bridges.
• Although extractions may appear simple, restoring your missing teeth may cost more than saving them.

How Do You Make a Decision Between a Root Canal and Extraction?

Deciding between them depends on various factors:

• If the crack is severe and jeopardizes the structural soundness of your tooth, then you do need to get your damaged tooth removed as soon as possible.
• Root canals are perfect for localized infection in your pulp, but systemic problems may need complete removal.
• Do you want a fast solution for your long-term oral health? Your response can determine your decision.

When Does a Dentist Recommend a Root Canal?

A dentist will try to save your natural tooth as much as possible. However, a severely damaged teeth will do you more harm than good. The infection can spread to your gums and other healthy teeth, causing severe pain and complications with your oral health.

In situations like that, it is always better to choose a tooth extraction. You can always choose teeth replacement options to fill in the gap left by the lost tooth. In fact, options like dental implants can mimic tooth roots and protect your jawbone from loss.

Are you ready to take care of your cracked teeth? Schedule a consultation today!