Tooth Extraction or Root Canal? - Dental Health Message Board

bobshotme · 03-28-2008, 11:58 AM

I need a root canal but my dentist thinks it will just get another cavity in a few years because of my immune system or lack of in my mouth. Its about 2100 cheaper to have the tooth extracted but ive never done that before. What is the better option? and if i have it extracted i read they enlarge the tooth socket in my jaw bone for it to come out, but would that cause any damage to my face like puffyness or anything that can be seen from the outside?

Right now i want to have the tooth extracted because im broke, but im still not sure.

Moses86 · 03-28-2008, 06:48 PM

Is it a posterior or anterior tooth ?
Personally I would be very concerned about the aesthetic aspect of getting a front tooth removed without any replacement.

Then again if it is a molar, there is the loss of function. A loss of chewing surface that will be noticeable when you eat, but it's not as dramatic, in my opinion as a front one. You can probably spare one but they are important teeth that you will miss.

Any swelling after an extraction is only temporary.

It's a tough choice especially when the problem is chiefly financial, I know all too well what that is. Good luck.

bobshotme · 03-28-2008, 10:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Moses86

Is it a posterior or anterior tooth ?
Personally I would be very concerned about the aesthetic aspect of getting a front tooth removed without any replacement.

Then again if it is a molar, there is the loss of function. A loss of chewing surface that will be noticeable when you eat, but it's not as dramatic, in my opinion as a front one. You can probably spare one but they are important teeth that you will miss.

Any swelling after an extraction is only temporary.

It's a tough choice especially when the problem is chiefly financial, I know all too well what that is. Good luck.

It's a molar, second to the last one on my top right. Thanks so much for the advice.