Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction: Why Saving Your Tooth is the Best Choice

When faced with a severely infected or damaged tooth, many patients wonder whether it’s better to extract the tooth or save it with a root canal. While both options are available, a root canal is almost always the better long-term solution for your oral health, appearance, and overall well-being.

At Dr. Tejal Kakade’s practice in Carrollton, we prioritize conservative dentistry, which means preserving your natural teeth whenever possible. Let’s explore why a root canal is often the best choice over tooth extraction and how it can help you maintain a strong, healthy smile.

Why is a Root Canal Better Than an Extraction?

Many people assume that pulling a damaged tooth is the easiest solution, but this often leads to more complications and higher costs in the long run. A root canal offers several benefits that tooth extraction cannot match.

1. A Root Canal Saves Your Natural Smile

Once a tooth is extracted, it’s gone forever. While there are great options for tooth replacement, such as dental implants or bridges, they cannot fully replicate the function and feel of a natural tooth.

A root canal: Preserves the tooth’s natural structure and function.

Prevents neighboring teeth from shifting and causing bite problems.

Maintains your natural facial structure and prevents bone loss in the jaw.

Fact: According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), patients who save their natural teeth with a root canal are more likely to have a better long-term quality of life than those who undergo extractions.

2. Root Canals are Less Painful Than Extractions

Many patients fear root canals, believing they are painful. However, modern root canal therapy is virtually painless and no more uncomfortable than getting a cavity filled.

On the other hand, tooth extractions can lead to more pain, swelling, and complications—especially if dry socket develops after surgery.

With a root canal: Pain relief is immediate after the infection is removed.

You avoid the longer healing time that comes with an extraction.

There is minimal discomfort thanks to advanced numbing techniques.

Fact: A survey by the AAE found that patients who underwent a root canal described the experience as “painless” or “better than expected” in over 85% of cases.

3. Avoid the Cost and Hassle of Tooth Replacement

Many patients do not realize that an extraction is just the beginning of treatment. Once a tooth is removed, it creates a gap that must be filled with a replacement to prevent further dental issues.

After an extraction, you may need:

• A dental implant (which can cost $3,000 or more per tooth).
• A dental bridge, which requires altering adjacent teeth.
• Dentures, which can be uncomfortable and require maintenance.
• A root canal is usually the more cost-effective option because it avoids the need for expensive tooth replacement treatments.

Fact: Studies show that dental implants cost up to three times more than a root canal, making tooth preservation the more budget-friendly choice.

4. Prevent Jawbone Deterioration

When a tooth is extracted, the jawbone in that area begins to shrink due to lack of stimulation. Over time, this can cause:

• A sunken facial appearance (premature aging).
• Difficulty chewing and speaking properly.
• Increased risk of additional tooth loss.

Since a root canal allows your natural tooth to remain in place, it helps maintain the strength and structure of the jawbone.

Fact: Research from the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation shows that patients who lose teeth without replacement experience up to 25% bone loss in the first year.

When is an Extraction Necessary?

While saving a tooth is always the preferred option, there are certain cases where extraction may be unavoidable. A tooth may need to be removed if:

• It is too severely damaged (beyond what a root canal or crown can repair).
• There is severe gum disease that has caused extensive bone loss.
• The tooth is impacted or affecting surrounding teeth (such as wisdom teeth).

In these situations, Dr. Kakade will discuss your best treatment options to ensure you receive the most effective and comfortable care.

Choose the Best Option for Your Smile

If you’re dealing with an infected or damaged tooth, don’t assume that extraction is the only solution. A root canal can save your tooth, relieve pain, and protect your long-term oral health.

At Dr. Tejal Kakade’s office in Carrollton, we provide gentle, effective root canal treatment to restore your smile comfortably and efficiently. Schedule a consultation today to see how we can help save your tooth and protect your smile for years to come.