Recognizing the difference between a root canal and tooth extraction is crucial. While there are numerous methods, both are suitable for a damaged tooth. Both will relieve discomfort and repair your teeth. Both treatments are cheap compared to others in dentistry.
A root canal is cheaper than removing a tooth. Root canal costs depend on many factors. Root canal costs vary by location and dentist. It also depends on the number of teeth.
Most dental policies cover part of a root canal. Plans vary and may include co-pays and deductibles. Dentists may provide a payment plan. Prepaying for a root canal may save money. These policies won't cover a root canal if a tooth is gone.
A root canal or tooth extraction is painful. Some require this to save their teeth. Others may be removed due to illness. Whatever your scenario, know what to expect from the operation.
Dentists numb the affected tooth during the procedure. Covering the tooth in rubber or vinyl. Enamel is drilled to reach the pulp. Dentists clean and remove the pulp after disinfecting it.
Following the procedure, the tooth is crowned. It will protect and support the tooth. The tooth will be permanently filled after a few weeks.
Your dentist may prescribe painkillers for a root canal or tooth extraction. Pain reliever ibuprofen is common. Your dentist may prescribe stronger painkillers if these don't work. Alternatively, you might use a cold pack to assist relieve inflammation.
After a root canal, your tooth may be sore. Swelling root canal is possible. It's normal and will go away. Avoid biting the treated tooth. You may be told to avoid hard and chewy foods in the first few days.
Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to speed healing. If your pain persists, you may be given a stronger pain reliever, which is tiring.
A tooth infection can cause fever, pain, swelling in the face, neck, and jaw, and a bad taste in the mouth. The condition can spread if untreated. It can cause meningitis.
If you have any of these symptoms, see a dentist. An infected tooth can be life-threatening if left untreated. This infection can spread to the spine, the brain, and the bones.
A tooth infection left untreated can lead to sepsis, a serious bacterial infection. Sepsis is more likely in people with weakened immune systems. Sepsis signs include high fever, rapid heart rate, mental confusion, and skin mottling.
After a root canal or tooth extraction, follow the right aftercare steps to speed healing and reduce complications. The aftercare steps vary by patient, but they all involve protecting the extraction site and promoting clotting.
The most important part of aftercare is maintaining a blood clot. It prevents painful complications and protects exposed nerves and bones. To help form a clot, the dentist may place gauze at the site and instruct the patient to bite on it. The site must also be kept clean. A dentist may use salt water solution to rinse food debris.
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