Don’t Rush to Remove That Tooth

You’re sitting in the dental chair, and your dentist says:
“We may need to do a root canal… or remove the tooth.”
Suddenly, you’re confused.

Which one is better?
Is removing the tooth easier?
Is a root canal painful?

What’s the safer choice long-term?

If you're dealing with tooth pain or infection, this decision can feel stressful. Let’s break it down in simple words so you can understand your options clearly.

The Real Problem: Tooth Pain Doesn’t Fix Itself

Many people ignore tooth pain, hoping it will go away. But usually, pain means:

Deep decay
Infection inside the tooth
Severe damage or crack
Swelling or abscess

If left untreated, the infection can spread, cause severe pain, and even affect nearby teeth.

When the damage is serious, dentists usually recommend either:

Root canal treatment (to save the tooth)
Tooth extraction (to remove the tooth completely)

Let’s compare both.

Tooth Extraction: Pros and Cons

What Is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction means removing the entire tooth, including the root, from the jaw.
It is usually recommended when:

The tooth is badly broken
Decay is too deep to repair
There is severe infection
The tooth cannot be saved

Pros of Tooth Extraction

✔ Quick procedure – Usually done in one visit
✔ Lower initial cost – Often cheaper than a root canal
✔ Removes infection completely – The problem tooth is gone

Cons of Tooth Extraction

✖ Gap in your smile – Missing teeth affect appearance
✖ Bone loss over time – The jawbone may shrink without a tooth
✖ Chewing problems – It may become harder to eat certain foods
✖ May require replacement – You may need a dental implant or bridge later

Important: Replacing a missing tooth (with an implant or bridge) can cost more than saving it in the first place.

Root Canal: Pros and Cons

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal removes the infected pulp (inside tissue) of the tooth, cleans the area, and seals it. The natural tooth stays in place.
It is recommended when:

The infection is inside the tooth.
The tooth structure is still strong enough to save.
You want to keep your natural tooth

Pros of Root Canal Treatment

✔ Saves your natural tooth
✔ Keeps your smile complete
✔ Prevents bone loss
✔ Relieves pain from infection
✔ Can last a lifetime with proper care

Cons of Root Canal

✖ Takes longer than extraction
✖ Higher upfront cost
✖ May need a crown after treatment

However, modern root canal treatments are much more comfortable than people think. With advanced technology and proper anesthesia, most patients feel little to no pain.

So… Which Option Is Better?

In most cases, saving your natural tooth is always the best option.

Dentists prefer root canal treatment when:

The tooth can still be saved.
The structure is strong enough.
The infection has not destroyed the root completely

Extraction is usually recommended when:

The tooth is beyond repair.
The crack goes below the gum line.
Severe bone damage exists

The Best Decision? Early Treatment.

The longer you wait, the worse the infection becomes.
Early treatment can:

Save your tooth
Reduce cost
Prevent complications
Avoid severe pain

If you're unsure, a professional dental evaluation is the safest way to decide.

Protect Your Smile the Smart Way

Both tooth extraction and root canal treatment are common and safe procedures. The right choice depends on your specific condition.
But remember:
If a tooth can be saved, saving it is usually better for your long-term dental health.

At Saphire Dental Clinic in Dubai, our experienced dental team carefully examines your condition and recommends the most suitable treatment for your comfort, health, and smile goals. We use advanced dental technology to make procedures gentle, precise, and stress-free.

If you're experiencing tooth pain, don’t wait. Early care makes all the difference.
Book your consultation today and protect your natural smile.