It is estimated that around 65% of people in the United States are suffering from tooth decay. Tooth decay is extremely common, but it can progress seriously if not treated, which can lead to infections and tooth loss. If you’re faced with tooth decay that has progressed and your dentist is recommending a root canal, you may be wondering, is a root canal worth it?
What is a Root Canal?
Before deciding if a root canal is right for you, it can be helpful to know more about the procedure. A root canal is a procedure that an endodontist may perform if a tooth has become diseased in order to remove the innermost part of the tooth, also known as the root or pulp. A local anesthesia or other type of pain relief is usually administered by your endodontist to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Antibiotics are also sometimes prescribed to treat or prevent infection before or after the root canal.
A Root Canal May Save Your Tooth
A root canal may be recommended to save your tooth if your tooth has become decayed or infected to the point where it affects the root. A tooth extraction may seem like a more simple and inexpensive option, but there are a lot of risks associated with tooth extractions. When considering “Is a root canal worth it?” it can be helpful to consider your other options and their associated risks, and the long term benefit a root canal may provide in keeping your mouth healthy.
Risks of Extraction
After a tooth has been extracted, it leaves an empty space in your mouth that can be prone to bacteria or infection. That infection might then spread to other teeth or other areas of the mouth, leading to the need for more extractions.
Extracting a tooth also leaves space that can allow the surrounding teeth to shift out of alignment, possibly resulting in additional gaps, overcrowding, overlapping, or loose teeth which can also lead to further loss.
A root canal can have an impact on more than one tooth, but may help maintain the health of your entire mouth, by saving the affected tooth, and giving you more time with healthy function.
Talk to Your Dentist or Endodontist
If you’re wondering “Is a root canal worth it?” it’s important to talk to your dentist or Endodontist, if you were referred, about your concerns and any questions you might have before having the procedure done. It’s important to make an appointment with your dentist or Endodontist as soon as possible if you’ve been told, or suspect, you may need a root canal. It may be helpful during your exam to ask to view the x-rays of your affected tooth and talk over what will happen and what to expect during and after the procedure, so that you can make an informed decision that makes you feel comfortable.
Call our Lubbock Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.