When a tooth becomes infected and inflamed, you might wonder what solutions your dentist may provide to alleviate the problem. While many people may prepare for a tooth extraction, dentists can use state-of-the-art endodontic procedures like root canals to save damaged teeth. The guide below highlights the differences between root canals and tooth extractions. 

Understanding Root Canals & Tooth Extractions

What Is a Root Canal?

When a tooth is damaged because of impact or severe decay, its interior will become inflamed or infected, causing a great deal of pain. Sometimes, teeth can even bleed internally, creating a dark hue to appear on the tooth’s surface. The goal of a root canal is to remove the interior pulp and nerves of the tooth, and to fill the inside with a special rubberized compound, preserving and protecting its structure. 

During a root canal, dentists start by numbing the area carefully and then creating a small access point in the biting surface of the tooth. After a rubber dental dam is placed to keep infection from spreading, dentists will remove the pulp inside the tooth and use sanitizing agents to remove bacteria. After the area is clean and dry, dentists place a special compound inside the tooth, seal the access point, and protect the entire exterior with a crown. 

What Is An Extraction? 

While root canals focus on preserving what is left of the damaged tooth, extractions focus on removing it completely. This procedure may be necessary when the root of the tooth is damaged or when decay is severe enough to impact the structural integrity of the gums and surrounding teeth.

Like root canals, extractions begin with a dentist carefully numbing the area with a powerful local anesthetic. After the tooth and jaw are numb, your doctor will use a pair of forceps to gently rock the tooth back and forth to widen the root chamber and allow the tooth to be removed. Since the area around the root and gums is vascular, patients typically experience some bleeding after a tooth is pulled. To combat this bleeding, your dentist may ask you to bite down on some clean gauze until they stitch it. Recovering from an extraction can take a few days, but completely removes the infected tooth, potentially saving you from ongoing infections. 

If you aren’t sure what you should do about a damaged tooth, talk with the dentists at BridgeView Dental Group in Kodiak, AK. These professionals perform procedures from root canals to tooth extractions to preserve your oral health. They also offer restorative methods such as dental implant placement if your tooth needs to be extracted. To browse their services, visit their website or call (907) 486-3257 to schedule an appointment.