--- title: Root canal or extraction - What’s the difference and why should you care? description: When a tooth gets badly infected at the nerve, there are two options for addressing the issue. Many ask, “should I have a root canal or extraction?” Find out here. image: https://blog.edentalsolutions.com/hubfs/Root%20canal1.png --- - [Home »](https://blog.edentalsolutions.com) - [Top Dental and Wellness Stories »](https://blog.edentalsolutions.com) - Root canal or extraction - What’s the difference and why should you care? # Root canal or extraction - What’s the difference and why should you care? May 26, 2026 - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) ![Root canal1](https://blog.edentalsolutions.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Root%20canal1.png?width=629&height=329&name=Root%20canal1.png) If you've ever suffered from a persistent toothache, chances are you've heard your dentist mention "root canal" or "extraction." These terms can sound intimidating, but fear not—this blog is here to simplify them for you. Let's dive into the details of these common dental procedures and discover what they mean for your smile. ## What is a root canal? When a large cavity or other factor causes a tooth's root to become infected and inflamed, [a root canal](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tooth-abscess/in-depth/root-canal/art-20585454) is often done to remove the infected root without taking out the tooth. Here's a quick rundown of what happens: - The process: Your dentist will carefully remove the infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth, clean the area, and then fill and seal it. Think of it as a deep clean for your tooth's insides.   - Why choose this?: Root canals allow you to keep your natural tooth. This is usually the best option for maintaining your natural bite and smile. Plus, it helps you avoid the potential issues that can arise from missing teeth.   - Recovery: After a root canal, you might feel some tenderness, but it’s typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Before you know it, you'll be back to chewing with confidence. ### Why do people choose NOT to get a root canal? From a cost standpoint, [a root canal is generally more expensive](https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/oral/root-canal-cost?srsltid=AfmBOord5uHUq4LnnELEvJNXN5nqIqyR2iD0fvAir-o8xa7xUFSuj5bT) than the price of a tooth extraction, but there’s more involved than just the initial procedure. Unless you’re willing to leave a gaping hole in your mouth (which is bad for both your oral health and your social life) having a tooth removed requires you to get a dental bridge or implant in place of the lost tooth. Overall, this means that the work needed to complete a tooth extraction could end up being more expensive than a root canal. No matter what procedure you have done, having a dental discount plan will ensure that you [save on dental care](https://www.edentalsolutions.com/savings.aspx). ## Extraction: Out with the old Now, let’s talk about [extractions](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22120-tooth-extraction). Sometimes, a tooth is too far gone to be saved, or perhaps it’s causing overcrowding. Here's what you need to know: - The process: Extraction involves removing the entire tooth from its socket. Don't worry; your dentist will ensure you're comfortable and numb before starting.   - Why choose this?: Extractions might be necessary if a tooth is severely decayed, impacted, or if it's making room for orthodontic treatment. It’s a straightforward solution when saving the tooth isn’t an option.   - Recovery: You’ll need to take it easy for a bit. Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to ensure smooth healing. Ice packs and soft foods will be your best friends for a couple of days. ## Why should you care? Understanding the difference between these procedures can help you make informed decisions about your dental health. Here’s why it’s important: - Preserve your smile: Keeping your natural teeth whenever possible is important for your oral health and function. Root canals can help preserve your smile’s integrity.   - Avoid future complications: Missing teeth can lead to shifting, which can mess with your bite and even lead to jaw issues. Knowing your options can help prevent these complications. - Peace of mind: Knowing what to expect and why these procedures are recommended can help ease anxiety and empower you to take charge of your dental health journey. We hope this clears up any confusion and helps you feel more comfortable with your dental care choices. Remember, a healthy smile is a happy smile.  Want to enhance your oral health while saving on dental care? 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