Do your teeth hurt or feel extremely sensitive every time you drink a hot or cold beverage? Dental infections or damage can make it difficult to chew or talk properly, and your cosmetic dentist will probably discuss different treatment options. You can either opt for a root canal or a dental extraction and implant–an artificial tooth designed to replace your original tooth.

You’ll need to consider the benefits and costs of both procedures before you proceed. Here’s all you need to know:

Root canal therapy

Root canal treatment starts with your dentist numbing the area around your affected tooth with a local anesthetic. Then, they will create a small opening at the top of the tooth and use special tools to remove any infected or inflamed pulp. This will leave some space that will be filled with a biocompatible material known as the gutta-percha. It’s sealed off with a temporary filling before getting replaced with a crown after a couple of weeks.

Sometimes, you can get the crown made within the same appointment so that you don’t have to keep coming back to the dentist’s office.

Extraction and implant

In some cases, your tooth might be too damaged or diseased to be saved, requiring an extraction followed by an implant. Your dentist will administer local anesthesia to the area and use forceps to remove the affected tooth. You might even have to undergo surgery, which would require general anesthesia. During a surgical extraction, your dentist will also remove some of the bone surrounding the tooth.

You’ll have to wait a few months to be able to fill the gap in your smile and get an implant so that the bone gets time to heal. Once the implant has been fixed into place, it needs to integrate with the jawbone before a crown or replacement tooth can top it off.

What’s the best option?

You need to consider many factors when choosing between these two treatments, including the aesthetic demand, restorability of the tooth, and whether the benefits are worth the cost. Most experts believe that it’s best to try to save a damaged tooth and prolong its life.

Root canals are usually less expensive, and dental insurance doesn’t always cover extractions. The cost varies according to the type of affected tooth, your insurance plan, and your location.

Simple tooth extractions aren’t too pricey, but a surgical extraction is going to cost more. The additional cost of an implant makes this option a lot more expensive.

We provide same-day dental treatments in Midland

Your dentist will determine the best course of action and provide you with proper guidance regarding your treatment. Whether you need a root canal or dental implant, the professional dental team at  Dr Be Smiles has got you covered! We believe in providing instant relief using a variety of top-notch tools such as X-rays and CEREC technology so that you can focus on more important tasks at home or at work.

Book an appointment today!