Listen to Your Dentist When They Recommend Wisdom Teeth Extraction

When a tooth becomes severely decayed, you and your dentist will typically need to choose between a root canal procedure and a tooth extraction. While a tooth extraction may often be the more cost-effective option, it may not be the better option. In fact, choosing to get a root canal actually offers several benefits for you and your health. In this article, you will be able to learn more about some of those benefits so that you can make the best possible decision when choosing between a root canal and a tooth extraction. 

Benefit #1: A Root Canal Can Help Prevent Bone Loss

Many people do not realize that having even a single tooth extracted can actually lead to bone loss in their jaw. However, the fact is that every time a tooth is extracted there is an empty socket left inside the jawbone. Over time, if this socket is not filled with an implant, the socket will begin to close. This results in a loss of bone density within the jaw. This can have several different negative effects. For instance, the loss of bone density in your jaw can result in a change in your facial structure and can make you more prone to tooth loss. Choosing to have a root canal rather than have your tooth extracted will allow you to avoid this type of bone loss and the negative effects that can come with it. 

Benefit #2: A Root Canal Helps Prevent Gaps From Forming Between Your Teeth

Your teeth actually help to hold each other in place. When a tooth is extracted, the surrounding teeth are no longer supported by this tooth. As a result, these teeth will often begin to shift. This can result in gaps forming between the teeth. In addition to the cosmetic issues that are caused by this shift, gaps in your teeth can also interfere with your bite strength and may make it more difficult to chew food. Root canals prevent the loss of your natural tooth. By allowing you to maintain a full set of teeth, a root canal procedure can also help you to avoid the development of gaps between your teeth. 

Benefit #3: A Root Canal Can Help Preserve Your Bite Strength

In order for you to maintain a healthy bite strength, it is important for all of your teeth to line up as intended. This is not possible when there is a tooth missing. By preventing the loss of your natural tooth, a root canal is able to help you preserve your bite strength. This is a very important part of being able to chew your food properly in order to avoid digestive issues. 

Talk to your dentist to learn more about root canal procedures.