Root Canal vs Extraction: What’s the Best Option for You?
Verified By
KIMS-SUNSHINE
Specialist,
23 June, 2025
Do you feel that there is a nagging feeling of pain or uneasiness when you eat something hot, cold, spicy, sweet or even breathe in cold air at times? That is because the nerve in your tooth is no longer covered and has been exposed to the elements. If this damage to the upper parts of the tooth is not taken care of immediately, then you may need to take more drastic measures later on. This translates to getting either a root canal done, or getting the tooth extracted completely.
Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction – Comparison
A root canal is done when your tooth needs to be preserved. This means only the infected tissue or part of the tooth is carefully removed and the space left behind is filled with a sealant to prevent any further sensitivity or damage from occurring. Root canals are slightly more expensive when compared to extractions, but they may be advantageous if preserving your natural teeth are a priority. A crown is then added to cover the tooth to make it look normal.
An extraction is done when the whole infected tooth along with its root is removed from the gum socket, leaving an empty space behind. This will impact how you chew food, how you eat and may even cause other teeth to move a bit in the jaw. Your smile may change and feel different too. An extraction may not seem expensive when done alone, but when you factor in after-visits, it can grow to a pretty costly affair.
When To Choose Root Canal Over Extraction
Root canals are normally chosen when the diseased part can be removed with relative ease and the rest of the tooth including the pulp are in good condition. After all, nothing will ever feel as good as a real tooth. But, if the damage to the tooth is too high and it is already very weak and cannot withstand any repair, then extraction is a better choice.
Pros And Cons Of Root Canal And Extraction
The advantages of getting a root canal treatment include retention of bone, reduction in pain and preserving the natural tooth. But, they may fail at times and then lead you to an extraction ultimately. Removing the infected part alone can weaken the tooth too, at times.
Extraction of the tooth means no more pain or infection but it can leave a gap in the jaw which will feel weird and won’t allow you to chew or smile like before. After care is important too, as it is pretty painful and you will need to eat soft foods or liquids only for the first few days.
Conclusion
Choosing which procedure to get done depends mainly on how your tooth is doing and whether it can withstand getting corrective treatment in the form of a root canal. If it is too extensively damaged, then getting it extracted may be a better bet as it can affect nearby teeth too, later on. Your overall health is also taken into consideration – if you are diabetic, then getting dental treatments may be slightly harder, as you will need to take good care of your blood glucose levels and ensure that they stay in control.
