Remember the last time you took your car to the mechanic, wondering what was causing the clanking sound you kept hearing? Then came the big decision: should you repair it, or is it time to replace it? Could the car be saved, or was it time to let it go? Choosing between a root canal vs. a tooth extraction feels a lot like that. If the tooth can be saved and still has a solid foundation, a root canal is often the best way to go. But if the damage is too severe or keeps coming back, removing it could be the better long-term solution.
When you visit Matthew Keider, DDS, we’ll help you understand all your options so that you can make the best choice for your oral health and wellness.
Root Canal vs. Extraction: What’s the Difference?
You might head to the mechanic when your car starts making strange noises, smells off, or just isn’t running right. You might see Dr. Keider for a possible root canal if you’re dealing with symptoms like sudden pain, sensitivity, or a fractured tooth. But is a root canal needed, or is extraction the solution?
Let’s start with the basics. A root canal is a procedure that cleans out the inside of a damaged or infected tooth. Dr. Keider removes the infected tissue, disinfects the tooth’s canals, and then seals the opening to keep the tooth protected. The treatment removes the infection and restores function, so you get to keep your natural tooth.
An extraction, on the other hand, means the tooth is completely removed from your mouth. It’s usually done when the tooth is too damaged or decayed to be saved.
Both treatments address tooth pain and infection. The main difference is whether the tooth is kept or taken out. Root canals are focused on saving the tooth, while extractions remove it to prevent further problems.
When Is a Root Canal the Better Option?
“There’s nothing as good as your natural teeth.” – Dr. Keider
Most of the time, if your natural tooth can be saved, that’s the way to go. Even the best tooth replacement options can’t fully match the feel and function of a natural tooth. A root canal lets us clean out the infection, relieve your pain, and keep the tooth in place, helping you chew comfortably and maintain your natural bite.
Saving the tooth also helps avoid the shifting or bone loss that can happen after an extraction. If the tooth’s structure is still strong, a root canal can be a great long-term solution.
And despite what many people think, root canals don’t cause pain—they relieve it. For some patients, the difference is felt almost right away once the numbing wears off. In cases where the infection has been around for a while, it might take a little longer to heal fully, and you could feel some tenderness as the area recovers. We’ll talk with you about what to expect before and after your procedure so there are no surprises.
Dr. Keider is highly skilled in root canal treatment and always aims to preserve your natural tooth when it’s the right choice for your health and smile.
When Does a Tooth Need To Be Extracted Instead?
Sometimes, saving a tooth just isn’t possible. If the damage is too severe (such as a deep crack, advanced decay, or a major infection that’s spread), Dr. Keider may recommend removing the tooth to protect your overall oral health. In these cases, it’s important to have a plan for replacing the missing tooth to keep your bite stable, stop other teeth from shifting, and prevent bone loss.
One of the most common replacement options is a dental implant, which replaces the root of the tooth and supports a replacement tooth. While reliable, some patients may not be ideal candidates for large traditional implants. Mini dental implants are a great choice for patients looking for a gentler option or those with less bone available. They’re smaller, more affordable, and come with a quicker recovery time.
With mini implants, Dr. Keider often recommends extracting the tooth and replacing it in the same visit so that the implant and extraction site can heal simultaneously.
After an extraction, healing time varies from person to person, but most patients recover within a few days to a couple of weeks. We’ll walk you through your options, discuss costs and treatment timelines, and help you make the choice that’s best for your smile and budget.
Root Canal vs. Extraction: Find the Right Solution for You
Just like with car repairs, knowing when to fix and when to replace can be a tough call. But you don’t have to make that decision alone. At Matthew Keider, DDS, we take the time to explain your options, answer your questions, and guide you toward the treatment that fits your needs. The goal is to restore comfort, function, and confidence, whether that means saving a tooth or replacing it. Every smile is different, and we’re here to help you make the best choice for yours. Schedule a consultation today to continue the journey to a healthier smile.
