Root Canal vs. Extraction: Which Option Is Better for You?

Do you have a relentless toothache that keeps you awake at night? Or perhaps you experience increased sensitivity when consuming cold or hot substances? The likely cause is an infected or damaged dental pulp. Luckily, Longmont Dental can revive and save your smile with root canal therapy in Longmont, Colorado. This restorative procedure addresses deep infections, saving your oral health and overall well-being.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a procedure that removes diseased or damaged tissues from inside the tooth. During the procedure, the dentist sanitizes the canals, then fills and seals them to prevent future infections. Finally, a crown is often placed to protect the tooth. Root canals save your natural tooth, preserving its strength and function.

The root canal procedure takes about 45-60 minutes. Most procedures can be completed in one visit, although more complex ones may require additional visits. Recovery is also seamless, with most people resuming their everyday life after a day or two.

Should I opt for a root canal over a dental extraction?

While dental extraction is an option, we strive to preserve your tooth with a root canal whenever possible. This endodontic procedure has several benefits over extractions.

Keeps your natural tooth: Preserving your natural tooth helps maintain jawbone health and facial structure. Additionally, even with advanced restorations, nothing quite compares to your natural tooth. A root canal helps preserve your natural smile.
Maintains bite alignment: Your surrounding teeth stay in place, reducing shifting or overcrowding.
Less invasive: Root canals are a more minimally invasive option than dental extractions.
It’s cost-effective: Preserving your tooth with a root canal is less expensive than extracting and replacing it with an implant or bridge.
Long-term solution: A root canal is not a temporary fix. With proper care, a root-canaled tooth can last decades, even a lifetime.

The choice between extraction and root canal therapy depends on the condition of your tooth and your overall dental health. We recommend root canals when the tooth is salvageable. Extraction is considered only when the tooth cannot be saved or if other health concerns exist. Dr. Kurt Knechtel or Dr. Wyatt Knechtel will examine your tooth, take X-rays, and discuss your long-term options.

Call Our Office for More Information

New Patients: (720) 815-4733 | Existing Patients: (303) 776-4229
Schedule Online

Are root canals painful? Do they cause illness?

Root canals have a bad reputation, but modern dentistry has completely transformed the experience. With today’s advanced anesthetics and technology, root canal therapy is usually no more uncomfortable than getting a dental filling. Most patients report feeling relief, rather than pain, since the procedure removes the infection that has been causing discomfort in the first place.

As for the idea that root canals cause illness, that’s an outdated myth from nearly a century ago. There’s no scientific evidence linking root canal treatment to any health problems. In fact, treating an infected tooth with a root canal helps you maintain overall health. A root canal prevents the infection from spreading to other parts of the body.

Is it time to meet your Longmont root canal dentist?

Longmont Dental combines gentle care, proven technology, and precise skills to deliver gentle, effective root canals. Don’t let tooth pain or infection ruin your comfort or health. Call (720) 815-4733 and schedule your consultation today with our caring team.

Dr. Kurt W. Knechtel, DMD

Kurt W. Knechtel, DMD, has been practicing dentistry for 29 years. He received his degree at Oregon Health Science University in 1995. After college, this former Longmont High School graduate returned home to start his practice. Dr. Knechtel likes to remain on the cutting edge of dentistry and continually looks for ways to improve the patient experience. He has had extra training in implant placement and orthodontics.

Dr. Wyatt J. Knechtel, DMD

Wyatt J. Knechtel, DMD, who joined our practice in 2023, holds a degree from Case Western Reserve University. Working alongside his father, he is dedicated to helping patients achieve the healthy smiles of their dreams. Dr. Wyatt led the implementation of SureSmile, an alternative to traditional braces, at our office.