Extraction or Root Canal

Question

My dentist tells me I have the choice of a root canal or extraction on my 2 top second molars. Personally, I have no problem with extraction. In some ways, I definitely prefer it since it's faster and cheaper. Now, I'm fine with extracting my top right second molar. However, I do have a problem with the other one I have already had my top left first premolar extracted, and I'm sort of worried that if I extract the second molar on that side too, then it might be 'too many' teeth gone in one area. I'm looking for pros and cons. What do you guys think? (Additional Info: None of my wisdom teeth are out.)

Answer 1

I would do everything to save a tooth.  Also, I would seek a second or even third opinion before I let anyone work on my teeth.

Answer 2

I would always fight to keep teeth.

I had to loose a tooth as a child as it "grew in wrong".  My Dad was a tighta**e and had it ripped out, cost him thousands about three years later when I needed braces!

My Mum has had a few issues with her teeth and fought like crazy for any teeth.  It's paid off in the long run though.  Two of her siblings went to having some at least false teeth in their forties and their health is poor, for other reasons mostly but the teeth are a factor.  Mum on the other hand is healthy as.  She looks after her health (siblings don't) and that includes her teeth.

Shop around for advice and don't always go for the cheapest.  Go for the one that is going for good quality work.

Answer 3

A root canal is done on a dead tooth. It is better to try to keep it if it is not loose or there are any other problems such as gum disease. My quack of a dentist was extracting my teeth, not because there was something wrong with my them but because I had deep infections in some gums. When I went to a specialist she said that they could have been saved. Now I am going to have to put in dental implants. I don't really have a problem with missing molars and you probably will not either. If you can afford them, you can get dental implants later on, if you are unhappy with having had the teeth pulled.

Answer 4

extraction a tooth is like cutting a finger, dont loose ur teeth for nothing, if u think its cheaper, its for the short term, but to replace this single extracted tooth, u may pay 4-5 folds the price of a root canal, beside replacement is not natural, keeping ur teeth with root canal isnt comparable by extracting and replacing, DONT extract

Answer 5

if you can handle pain well get root canal but if not get extraction but if your worried about it get the extraction on the one tooth and a root canal on the other ask your dentist which would be best

Answer 6

I've had both but I always think it's better to keep any teeth you can, as long as you can, so I'd go with the root canal. I have a couple of teeth that had root canals over 20 years ago and they are still fine, although I've had two fail, and had to have the extractions done later, then a bridge put in their place.

The new "screwed in" teeth are really the best way to go, after the extraction, as they look and work like your own teeth, but they are really expensive, although probably worth it if you have the money.

I hope it goes well for you, and that you have a good, gentle dentist. Good luck!

Answer 7

Extractions are easier, however, other issues might occur. For instance, once a tooth is extracted, teeth will gravitate (shift) towards each other. Teeth a "chummy", so to speak. If/when this happens, your bite could change...causing possible problems in the future.

Would you consider having a bridge, implants, stayplate or partial placed? Just a thought. :)

Out here (California), every attempt is made to save teeth.  

Answer 8

I agree with all the people who say you should try to hang onto your teeth, especially molars because they're often used to anchor bridges if you need them.

I'm going through similar dental issues. I had a root canal done some years ago but my dentist didn't do a great job and it's probably going to have to come out.

I've since discovered that there are specialists called endodontists who are the root canal gurus. I went to see one and was very impressed. If you can afford it it would be well worth going and seeing one of these guys to do the root canal work and see if your tooth can be saved.

Sadly, everything to do with dentristry is expensive. Still, you don't want just any one turning your head into a worksite. Good luck with it all.

Answer 9

it is always best to save your teeth if that is possible. when you get a tooth extracted the other teeth around that socket start "drifting" meaning moving around in your mouth unless you are prepared to spend the $3000.00 for the bridge or implant right after your jaw bone heals(and you have to pay for the extraction also.) it also puts more strain on the teeth around that area, that tooth is there to serve a purpose and with it gone other teeth have to work more and could break down. it is a difficult decision to make specially when finances are concerned but saving your teeth are the right choice to make and in the long run it will save you money to do the root canals.