Symptoms & diagnosis
Saving your natural tooth
The decision between root canal treatment and extraction should not be based solely on whether an infection is present.
What we assess
The condition of the roots, the amount of remaining healthy tooth structure, the presence of cracks, the periodontal (gum and bone) support, and the restorability of the tooth all need to be considered.
- Remaining tooth structure. A tooth needs enough sound structure above the gum to support a lasting restoration.
- Cracks. Cracks confined to the crown can often be managed; a crack running down the root usually cannot.
- Gum and bone support. Advanced gum disease can undermine an otherwise treatable tooth.
- Previous treatment. A failed root filling may be retreatable, surgically treatable, or neither.
- How the tooth will be restored. The final crown or filling is part of the plan from the outset.
When the prognosis is appropriate
Root canal treatment, retreatment or endodontic surgery may form part of a plan to preserve the natural tooth. Keeping a natural tooth preserves the surrounding bone and the way your teeth meet, and is usually less involved than extraction followed by an implant, bridge or denture.
When a tooth cannot be predictably restored
We will explain that clearly too, and give your dentist the information needed to plan replacement. An honest prognosis at the start avoids treatment that is unlikely to succeed.
Our guide root canal treatment or extraction: how to decide compares the options in more detail.