Root Canal (Endodontic treatment) versus Tooth Extraction
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By
Capps, Bowman, Padgett and Associates
When the nerve or pulp of a tooth becomes diseased or injured, treatment
is required to prevent pain, infection and further oral damage. Root canal
therapy is a safe and effective treatment option that preserves a patient’s
natural tooth. The American Association of Endodontists cite the following
advantages of natural tooth preservation: efficient chewing, normal biting
force, sensation, natural appearance and protecting other teeth from excessive
wear and stain. If a patient elects to remove (extract) the tooth as an
alternative treatment to root canal therapy, The American Association
of Endodontists advises patients should be aware that missing teeth can
make you self-conscious, affect your ability to bite and chew, cause other
healthy teeth to shift, and have a negative impact on your overall health.
For these reasons, the extracted tooth should be replaced with an artificial
one. Replacing missing teeth can range in price and give acceptable cosmetic
and functional results.
