Severe tooth pain has a way of stopping everything. Eating, sleeping, and even focusing on daily tasks can feel impossible when a damaged or infected tooth is causing constant discomfort. At that point, most patients face two main choices for relief: a root canal or a tooth extraction.
Both options can solve the problem, but they work in very different ways. Knowing the difference helps you make the decision that protects not only your comfort today but also your oral health in the future. At South Florida Dental Center in Coral Springs, we guide patients every day through this very choice.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental treatment that saves a tooth instead of removing it. When the soft inner tissue of a tooth (called the pulp) becomes infected, a root canal carefully removes the damaged tissue while keeping the outer structure of the tooth intact. After cleaning and disinfecting, the tooth is sealed and often covered with a crown for strength.
Benefits of a Root Canal
- Preserves your natural tooth and smile
- Restores normal chewing and biting ability
- Prevents surrounding teeth from shifting
- Long-lasting when paired with good oral care
When a Root Canal Is Needed
- Severe tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swollen gums around the tooth
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
- Abscess (pocket of infection) near the root
At South Florida Dental Center, Dr. Daniel Cohen uses advanced imaging and gentle techniques to make root canal treatments more comfortable than most patients expect.
What Is a Tooth Extraction?
An extraction is the complete removal of a tooth from the mouth. It may be recommended when a tooth is too damaged to be saved with a root canal or when other oral health issues make saving the tooth less practical.
Benefits of an Extraction
- Quick solution for a severely damaged or decayed tooth
- Eliminates infection risk from that tooth
- Can prepare the mouth for implants, dentures, or bridges
Risks and Considerations of Extraction
- Creates a gap in the smile unless replaced
- May affect chewing and speaking if not restored
- Bone loss in the jaw can occur over time
- Shifting of nearby teeth is common if the space remains open
Recovery After Extraction
Healing after an extraction usually takes a few days to a week. Patients may experience some swelling and tenderness, but following aftercare instructions—such as avoiding hard foods, not smoking, and keeping the area clean—supports smooth recovery.
Root Canal vs Extraction: Comparing the Options
When comparing root canal vs extraction, patients usually ask about four key areas: pain, cost, healing, and long-term oral health.
Pain
- Root Canal: Performed with anesthesia, root canals relieve the pain caused by infection. Most patients feel pressure but not sharp pain, and discomfort after treatment is usually mild.
- Extraction: Also done under anesthesia, extractions are typically quick. However, healing discomfort can last longer compared to a root canal, especially for surgical extractions.
Cost
- Root Canal: Often costs more upfront than a simple extraction, especially if a crown is needed. However, keeping your natural tooth can save money long term by avoiding bone loss or replacement costs.
- Extraction: Generally less expensive at first, but long-term costs can rise if you need implants, bridges, or dentures to replace the missing tooth.
Healing
- Root Canal: Recovery is relatively fast. Patients usually return to normal eating within a day or two.
- Extraction: Healing takes longer, often up to one or two weeks, depending on the complexity and your overall health.
Long-Term Health
- Root Canal: Preserves your natural tooth, maintains jawbone strength, and prevents shifting of nearby teeth.
- Extraction: Without replacement, the empty space can lead to bone loss and misalignment, which can impact chewing and overall oral health.
Which Option Is Better?
There isn’t one answer that fits every patient. The choice between root canal and extraction depends on the condition of the tooth, the health of your gums and bone, and your overall dental goals.
- A root canal is usually the better option if the tooth can be saved. Preserving natural teeth is almost always best for long-term function and health.
- An extraction may be recommended if the tooth is too severely damaged, cracked below the gumline, or if gum disease has weakened the bone around it.
At South Florida Dental Center, we examine every case individually with modern digital imaging and a complete consultation. Our goal is always to give patients a solution that combines comfort, function, and aesthetics.
Why Choose South Florida Dental Center
At South Florida Dental Center, we understand that facing the choice between a root canal and extraction in Coral Springs can feel overwhelming. That is why we take time to listen, explain every option, and guide you toward the treatment that best fits your needs.
- Dr. Daniel Cohen and our experienced team provide advanced root canal treatments and gentle extractions in a comfortable, modern environment.
- We offer same-day emergency care because tooth pain cannot wait.
- Our office is equipped with 3D imaging, digital X-rays, and high-quality dental materials for precise, safe results.
- We treat every patient like family, focusing on comfort, honesty, and long-term care.
Conclusion: Take the Next Step Toward Relief
Tooth pain can feel overwhelming, but the solution doesn’t have to be. Whether the right path is a root canal or an extraction, taking action quickly prevents further damage and restores your quality of life.
At South Florida Dental Center, we are here to help you make the best choice for your smile. Schedule a consultation today by calling (954) 569-5608 or booking online. Relief, comfort, and confidence are only one appointment away.
FAQs About Root Canal vs Extraction
Is a root canal painful?
Thanks to modern anesthesia and technology, root canals are no more painful than getting a filling. Most patients feel relief almost immediately after the procedure.
Is extraction cheaper than a root canal?
Yes, an extraction usually costs less at the start. However, replacing the missing tooth later with an implant or bridge often makes it more expensive overall.
How long does healing take for a root canal vs extraction?
Healing from a root canal usually takes one to two days. Healing after an extraction often takes a week or more, especially if stitches are needed.
Which option lasts longer?
A well-done root canal with a crown can last a lifetime if properly cared for. An extraction must be followed by a replacement option, such as an implant, which can also be long-lasting but requires additional procedures.
Can a tooth always be saved with a root canal?
Not always. If a tooth is cracked below the gumline or the infection is too advanced, extraction may be the safer option. Your dentist will evaluate and recommend what’s best.