Is It Better to Get a Tooth Pulled or Root Canal?
By Dr. Eastwood – Summerbrook Dental & Implants, Fort Worth, TX
Many patients ask me, “Should I get my tooth pulled or have a root canal?” The answer depends on your tooth’s condition, your long-term dental goals, and your overall health.
A root canal is a treatment that removes the infected or damaged nerve inside your tooth. After cleaning and sealing the tooth, we place a filling or crown to restore its shape and strength. A root canal can save your natural tooth, which is usually the best option for your long-term oral health. Keeping your natural tooth helps maintain your bite, jawbone, and the look of your smile.
A tooth extraction means completely removing the tooth. This may be the right choice if the tooth is too damaged to fix, if there is not enough healthy bone or tooth structure left, or if the infection cannot be fully cleaned out. However, when you lose a tooth, the space should be replaced with a dental implant, bridge, or denture to keep your bite even and prevent bone loss.
In most cases, saving your tooth with a root canal is better if it’s possible. Pulling a tooth can lead to shifting teeth, bite problems, and jawbone shrinkage if the space is left empty. That said, sometimes an extraction is the healthiest and most cost-effective choice—especially if the tooth has a poor long-term outlook.
At Summerbrook Dental & Implants, I help you understand all your options. Whether it’s a root canal or an extraction with a replacement like a dental implant, my goal is to make sure you have a healthy, strong, and confident smile. We are a no-judgment office, so you can feel comfortable discussing your concerns and making the decision that’s right for you.