Which Is Right for You?
Root Canal vs Extraction
Both options address a tooth that is infected or severely damaged, but they differ in procedure, cost, time, and long-term outcome.
Root canal treatment keeps your natural tooth in place. The procedure takes one or two visits, costs less than implant replacement in most cases, and lets you chew normally afterward. The limitation is that the tooth becomes more brittle and needs a crown for protection, and very rarely the infection does not resolve.
Extraction removes the problem entirely but leaves a gap that affects chewing, speech, and alignment of neighboring teeth. Replacing it with an implant or bridge requires surgery or preparation of adjacent teeth, several months of healing, and higher overall expense.
The endodontist or dentist confirms which option suits your tooth after clinical examination and X-rays, considering bone support, crack extent, and your preference.
