Root canal vs. tooth extraction
Compare the complete plans for retaining or removing a tooth.
Read the guide →Treat the inside of a restorable tooth
Root canal therapy
Root canal therapy removes inflamed or infected pulp, cleans and seals the space inside the tooth, and helps retain a tooth that can be restored. Diagnosis, tooth structure, periodontal support and the final restoration all affect whether it is an appropriate option.
Confirm the source of the problem
Pain alone does not identify which tooth or tissue needs treatment. The dentist reviews symptoms, examines the teeth and gums, tests the suspected tooth and selects appropriate images. Cracks, gum disease, sinus problems and jaw pain can sometimes resemble pulp pain.
What treatment generally involves
After the tooth is anesthetized and isolated, the clinician creates access, removes affected pulp tissue, cleans and shapes the canals, then fills and seals them. Anatomy and infection vary, so treatment may take one or more visits and some teeth are best managed by an endodontist.
The final restoration protects the tooth
Root canal treatment addresses the inside of the tooth; it does not replace missing tooth structure. A filling, core, crown or another restoration may be needed promptly to seal and protect the tooth. Ask who will complete it and when.
Compare the complete options
If the tooth cannot be predictably restored, has inadequate support or has a fracture with a poor outlook, extraction may be discussed. Compare the expected prognosis, procedures, restoration or replacement needs, time, risks and total fees for each complete plan.
Follow-up is part of care
Some tenderness can occur after treatment, but severe or increasing pain or swelling, a lost temporary filling, a bite that feels high or other concerning symptoms need a call to the treating office. Attend the recommended restoration and review visits.
Teeth and supporting tissues
Explore root canal and periodontal care
Gum disease and periodontal care
Understand evaluation, treatment and long-term periodontal maintenance.
Read the guide →Gum grafting
Review goals, materials, realistic limits and provider confirmation.
Read the guide →Regular cleaning vs. deep cleaning
Know why preventive cleaning and periodontal treatment differ.
Read the guide →Use the diagnosis to choose the next step
The tooth and final restoration are one plan
Ask how diagnosis, treatment, restoration, prognosis and follow-up fit together before choosing care.
Explore all dental services →Margate · Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
Choose your office
Margate
100 FL-7, Suite 300Margate, FL 33063Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
236 Commercial BoulevardLauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL 33308Your questions, answered
Does a root canal remove the tooth?
No. It treats the tissue and spaces inside the tooth so a restorable tooth can remain in place.
Will I need a crown?
The final restoration depends on the tooth, remaining structure, bite and other findings. Ask for the restorative plan before treatment.
Do both offices provide every root canal?
Do not assume that. The office must confirm the clinician and location; complex anatomy or other findings may require an endodontist.
Prepare for each stage
Explore oral surgery and recovery
Oral surgery
See how evaluation, procedure planning and referral decisions fit together.
Read the guide →Dental bone grafting
Understand graft goals, materials, staging and healing.
Read the guide →Tooth extractions
Review reasons, approaches, replacement planning and aftercare.
Read the guide →Wisdom tooth removal
Learn when wisdom teeth may be monitored, removed or referred.
Read the guide →Tooth extraction recovery and aftercare
Prepare to protect the socket and recognize warning signs.
Read the guide →Get ready for your visit
Organize your paperwork, questions and next steps.
Independent patient resources
General education does not replace the examination, diagnosis or recommendation of the treating clinician.