By Maylands Dental Centre 
If you have a damaged or infected tooth, you may wonder: Is it better to pull out a tooth or get a root canal treatment? Making the right choice can feel challenging, especially considering the long-term effects on oral health, function, and comfort.
Root canal treatment aims to rescue your natural tooth by removing infection inside the root and sealing it to prevent further issues. In contrast, extraction removes the entire tooth. This often means replacing it with a dental implant or bridge to restore your bite and appearance. Each approach has pros and cons — from healing time and treatment complexity to cost and overall impact on your daily life.
Ultimately, the ideal option depends on your individual case, including the condition of your tooth, your overall oral health, and your dentist’s advice. This article is designed to inform and guide; it should not be used as a substitute for professional dental advice.
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- Summary of the Content:
- Why Do Teeth Become Infected or Damaged?
- What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure
- What Happens During a Tooth Extraction
- Key Differences Between Root Canal Treatment and Extraction
- When Might Root Canal Treatment Be Recommended?
- When Might Tooth Extraction Be the Better Option?
- Long-Term Effects on Jaw, Bite, and Appearance
- Cost Comparison: Root Canal Treatment vs Tooth Extraction in Perth
- Cost Comparison: Root Canal Treatment vs Tooth Extraction in Perth
- Can You Leave a Damaged Tooth Without Treatment?
- Which Option Supports Long-Term Oral Health Better?
- Final Thoughts
Summary of the Content:
- Teeth can become infected or damaged from decay, gum disease, or injury. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, or sensitivity.
- Root canal therapy helps rescue the natural tooth. The dentist removes the infection inside the root canals, cleans the space, and seals the tooth to prevent further infection.
- Tooth extraction removes the entire tooth. It may be a simple or surgical procedure, and replacement options are often suggested afterwards.
- Root canal treatment and extraction differ in recovery, chewing function, costs, and risks. Your dentist can explain which is more suitable.
- Depending on infection or structural damage, root canal therapy may be advised if saving the tooth is possible.
- Tooth extraction may be recommended if the tooth cannot be extracted, or replacement may provide better long-term oral health support.
- Long-term effects may include changes to jawbone health, bite alignment, appearance, and overall dental health. Financial factors for replacement treatments are also important.
Why Do Teeth Become Infected or Damaged?
Teeth can become infected or damaged for several reasons. Tooth decay is the most common cause of dental issues. It occurs when bacteria wear away enamel and reach the inner pulp. Injuries like a crack or chip can also expose the tooth to infection. Gum disease can lead to bone and tissue loss, increasing the vulnerability to infection and causing long-term tooth damage.
It is essential to identify early signs of infection. Many people seek care when discomfort begins to affect their daily activities. Common symptoms may include persistent or severe tooth pain and swelling in the gums, face, or jaw. Other signs are sensitivity to foods and discomfort when chewing.
If unattended, the infection may spread and cause additional damage. Seeking timely dental care can help reduce the risk of complications and protect your overall oral health.
What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure
A root canal procedure helps preserve a natural tooth. The dentist removes diseased pulp, cleans the canals, and seals the space to prevent further infection. The process usually involves five careful steps:
- Diagnosis and preparation:
The dentist takes X-rays to assess the extent of the infection, and a local anaesthetic is applied to numb the tooth. - Accessing the pulp chamber:
The dentist creates a small opening in the tooth to reach the infected pulp tissue. - Cleaning and disinfecting:
The pulp is carefully removed, and the canals are cleaned and shaped to prepare them for sealing. - Sealing the tooth:
The canals are filled with gutta-percha, a rubber-like material that creates a seal and helps block bacteria from returning. - Restoration:
The opening is closed with a filling, and in many cases, a crown is placed later to restore the tooth’s strength and function.
Root canal treatment aims to preserve the natural tooth by removing infection and protecting the surrounding structures. This can help maintain oral function and overall dental health.
What Happens During a Tooth Extraction
A tooth extraction is a routine dental procedure, often recommended when a tooth is severely damaged or infected and cannot be effectively restored. The process involves completely removing the affected tooth from its socket.
There are two main types of extraction. Simple extraction is performed when the tooth is visible above the gum line. The dentist gently loosens and removes it with specific instruments. Surgical extraction may be necessary when a tooth is broken, impacted, or located below the gum line. This involves a minor surgical procedure, which may sometimes include small incisions or stitches.
After extraction, dentists provide aftercare instructions to support healing and reduce risks, such as dry socket. Because the removal leaves a gap, replacement options may be considered. A dental implant, bridge, or denture can help restore normal function, appearance, and oral health.
Key Differences Between Root Canal Treatment and Extraction
The choice between root canal therapy and tooth extraction depends on multiple factors. The table below outlines practical considerations for patients discussing options with their dentist.
| Factor | Root Canal Treatment | Tooth Extraction |
| Longevity | Preserves the natural tooth’s structure when successful, often lasting many years with proper care | Removes the tooth completely, usually requiring replacement options to maintain function and aesthetics |
| Pain & Recovery | May involve short-term discomfort after the procedure; long-term relief is achieved once the infection is cleared | Initial recovery may include swelling, bleeding, or risk of dry socket; long-term healing depends on aftercare and possible replacement |
| Aesthetics | Maintains natural appearance, preventing visible gaps in the smile | May leave a gap unless replaced with a dental implant, bridge, or denture |
| Function | Restores chewing ability by preserving the natural tooth | Chewing may be affected, especially if multiple extractions occur without replacement |
| Cost Considerations | Higher upfront cost due to multiple steps and potential crown placement | Often, lower initial cost but long-term expenses may increase if replacement is required |
| Risks & Complications | Risks include reinfection or need for retreatment, though these are relatively uncommon | Risks include infection, dry socket, and jawbone deterioration over time without replacement |
This comparison highlights practical differences without favouring any one treatment. The most suitable option depends on the clinical circumstances, the patient’s oral health, and their goals.
When Might Root Canal Treatment Be Recommended?
Root canal therapy may be suggested when the natural tooth remains preserved. Dentists sometimes recommend this treatment in the following situations:
- Deep decay has reached the pulp of the tooth. However, the outer structure remains strong enough to support restoration.
- The pulp is damaged or infected, causing pain, swelling, or sensitivity. The surrounding root and bone remain stable.
- A cracked or chipped tooth exposes the pulp, but the damage does not extend below the gum line.
- The patient wishes to keep their natural tooth, avoiding the long-term changes linked with tooth removal.
- The infection appears confined and may be managed without spreading to nearby teeth or bone.
In these scenarios, root canal treatment may help preserve the natural tooth, supporting oral function, appearance, and long-term dental health.
When Might Tooth Extraction Be the Better Option?
Tooth extraction may be recommended when preserving the tooth is impossible or does not support long-term oral health. Common situations include the following:
- The tooth is severely damaged or fractured below the gum line, making restoration difficult.
- Extensive decay has compromised too much of the tooth’s structure for a crown or filling to be effective.
- The affected tooth may not be restorable because of an advanced infection or inadequate bone support.
- In some cases, extraction followed by replacement may be more practical than complex or repeated restorative procedures.
- A tooth contributing to crowding or misalignment may be removed as part of orthodontic treatment.
- Repeated infections or unsuccessful root canal treatment may make extraction a more reliable long-term approach.
In these situations, extraction can help manage oral health concerns and allow planning for replacement options such as implants, bridges, or dentures.
Long-Term Effects on Jaw, Bite, and Appearance
Bite Alignment
Root canal therapy may help preserve the natural tooth, thereby supporting proper bite alignment and maintaining optimal chewing function. By contrast, extraction without replacement can cause neighbouring teeth to shift. This movement may lead to misalignment or uneven bite forces.
Jawbone Health
Retaining a natural tooth with root canal therapy may help preserve jawbone structure. When a tooth is removed, the surrounding bone may gradually shrink, a condition sometimes referred to as bone loss in the jaw. These conditions can weaken oral support unless a replacement, such as an implant or bridge, is placed.
Aesthetics
Saving a tooth with root canal treatment may help maintain a complete smile and facial structure. An extracted tooth that is not replaced may leave visible gaps, which can affect the appearance. Over time, this change can also influence overall facial support.
Cost Comparison: Root Canal Treatment vs Tooth Extraction in Perth
The cost of treatment can vary depending on the tooth, the complexity of the treatment, and any additional procedures that may be required. Understanding these can help patients weigh whether to pull out a tooth or get a root canal treatment, since both involve short- and long-term expenses.
While exact fees differ between clinics, the following ranges provide a general guide based on Perth averages:
- Root canal treatment:
Fees typically start at around $980 for a single canal with a filling and may exceed $7,400 for multi-canal cases that require a crown. The cost depends on the number of canals and whether a crown is recommended for added strength and durability. - Tooth extraction:
A simple extraction typically costs between $205 and $330, while a complex extraction (including removal of some wisdom teeth) can range from $465 to $645. - Replacement options after extraction:
If a tooth is removed, a replacement may be advised to maintain function and appearance. A dental implant in Perth typically ranges between \$4,000 and \$6,500, while a dental bridge costs between \$2,500 and \$4,000.
These figures are only estimates. Costs vary between patients, and a personalised treatment plan or quote will be provided after a dental consultation.
Cost Comparison: Root Canal Treatment vs Tooth Extraction in Perth
Decisions about saving or removing a tooth are always based on a careful clinical evaluation. Dentists consider several important factors when recommending the most suitable option:
- Comprehensive examination:
The dentist conducts a visual assessment of the affected tooth and surrounding gums to determine the extent of the problem. - X-rays and imaging:
X-rays are used to evaluate decay, infection, or structural damage and to determine the health of the surrounding bone before treatment planning. - Oral health status:
The overall condition of the gums, nearby teeth, and jawbone is assessed, since this plays a key role in treatment decisions. - Prognosis of the tooth:
Dentists assess whether the tooth can be restored or if extraction would provide a more reliable long-term option. - Patient goals:
Dentists also consider a patient’s preferences, such as preserving a natural tooth or selecting a replacement option if extraction is necessary. - Lifestyle and health factors:
Age, medical history, dental anxiety, and daily oral hygiene habits may all influence the recommended treatment approach.
This approach helps guide treatment that supports both dental health and long-term oral function.
Can You Leave a Damaged Tooth Without Treatment?
Leaving a damaged or infected tooth unattended may increase the risk of problems over time. While symptoms might seem manageable initially, underlying issues rarely improve without care.
This tooth can cause:
- Infection spread:
Bacteria may migrate from the pulp into the gums, jawbone, or adjacent teeth, increasing the risk of further damage. - Persistent or severe pain:
Pain may worsen as decay or infection progresses. This can affect eating, sleep, and daily life. - Costlier interventions:
A tooth that could have been salvaged with a root canal treatment may later require extraction, replacement, or more complex treatment. - Complications:
In rare cases, infection may lead to swelling, abscess formation, or other health concerns.
For long-term oral health, seeking guidance from a dental professional is advisable rather than delaying treatment.
Which Option Supports Long-Term Oral Health Better?
In many cases, preserving a natural tooth with root canal treatment may support long-term oral health. Keeping the tooth may help maintain bite alignment, improve chewing ability, and support jawbone stability. When treatment is successful, it may reduce the likelihood of needing more complex replacement procedures.
However, if the tooth is severely damaged, can’t be restored, or has an uncontrolled infection, extraction may be recommended. Removing and replacing the tooth with an implant, bridge, or denture may help restore function and appearance in these situations.
There is no single way that suits every patient. The most suitable choice depends on the tooth’s condition, oral health, and personal goals. A dental professional can help patients determine whether root canal therapy or extraction is the most effective option for their circumstances.
Final Thoughts
The decision to pull out a tooth or get a root canal treatment depends on many factors, including the tooth’s condition, oral health, and goals. In some cases, preserving a natural tooth through root canal treatment can help maintain both function and appearance. Extraction may be more suitable when damage is severe. Treatment recommendations should always follow a thorough examination and discussion with a qualified dental professional.
If you are experiencing dental pain, an infection, or uncertainty about treatment options, our team at Maylands Dental Centre can provide personalised advice. A consultation allows a dentist to assess your circumstances and determine whether root canal therapy or extraction is more suitable for you.
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