Root Canal or Extraction? Understanding Your Options with Your Oakleigh Dentist

Root Canal or Extraction? Understanding Your Options with Your Oakleigh Dentist

If you’ve ever had a persistent toothache, it might be a sign of an infection inside the tooth. When this happens, your dentist in Oakleigh may recommend either a root canal treatment or a tooth extraction, depending on the extent of the damage. Understanding both options helps you make an informed decision about your oral health.

What Happens When a Tooth Gets Infected

Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When bacteria enter through deep decay, cracks, or trauma, the pulp can become infected or inflamed. This can cause ongoing pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, or even swelling around the affected area.

If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone, sometimes forming an abscess. In these cases, prompt dental care is essential to relieve discomfort and prevent further complications.

What Is a Root Canal Treatment?

Dentist performs a root canal treatment using precision instruments and protective barriers.

A root canal treatment is a common and effective way to save an infected tooth rather than removing it. During the procedure, your dentist carefully removes the infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent reinfection.

At Dental Capital SE in Oakleigh, we use advanced technology such as dental microscopes to enhance precision and accuracy during treatment. Once the infection is cleared, a crown or filling is placed to restore the tooth’s strength and function.

The main advantage of a root canal is that it allows you to keep your natural tooth, which helps maintain your bite alignment and overall oral health.

When Is Extraction Needed?

Dental forceps in use: Gently extracting a tooth during a removal procedure.

In some cases, the damage to the tooth may be too extensive for a root canal to be successful. This might happen when there is:

• Severe decay or fracture below the gum line

• Significant bone loss around the tooth

• Repeated infection or failed previous treatment

When a tooth cannot be saved, tooth extraction may be the best solution. After extraction, your dentist may discuss options for replacing the missing tooth, such as an implant, bridge, or denture, to maintain function and prevent shifting of nearby teeth.

Comparing Root Canal vs Extraction

Root canal treatment: saves the natural tooth, retains the bite and the alignment, tooth survives longer if well maintianed, and recovery is generally shorter.

Extraction: Lose the tooth, require extra healing time, may need replacement, it's a permanent tooth loss.

Your dentist will evaluate your situation, considering factors such as infection severity, bone support, and overall oral health, before recommending the most suitable approach.

Caring for Your Oral Health in Oakleigh

Whether you undergo a root canal or extraction, early intervention is key. Addressing dental pain promptly helps protect your remaining teeth and gums from further problems.

At Dental Capital SE, your local Oakleigh dental clinic near Hughesdale and Chadstone, we focus on providing precise, gentle, and well-informed care for every patient. With over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Karim Farag and his team are committed to helping you make confident, informed decisions about your oral health.

Disclaimer:The information provided in this blog is general in nature and does not substitute professional advice. Treatment outcomes and recovery times vary for each individual. Always seek advice from a qualified AHPRA-registered dental practitioner and consider a second opinion before proceeding with any treatment. This content is intended for adults and for educational purposes only.