Root Canal or Extraction?

So you’ve been told you have a tooth infection and should consider a root canal, but what are your options? Is a root canal really the best choice or should you have the tooth extracted?

- A root canal is an endodontic treatment in which infected pulp is removed from inside the tooth. After which, the area is carefully cleaned and is then filled with a rubber-like substance and sealed.

- Tooth extraction simply removes the infected tooth.

On the surface, tooth extraction may seem a simpler option, but a root canal provides many long-term benefits and is likely a better choice for your overall dental health in the long run.

Tooth Extraction Can Take a Toll

Choosing a tooth extraction over a root canal can actually lead to further health problems later on. When a tooth is removed and not replaced, surrounding teeth slowly shift towards the open space. This movement will lead to a misaligned bite and potential jaw problems over time. When teeth shift from their original positions, their oral health may become more vulnerable to other dental or gum health issues.

In fact, after a tooth has been removed, most dentists will recommend that it be replaced in order to avoid complications. Replacing teeth is done by using a dental bridge or implant. When all is said and done, the tooth extraction, a procedure that seemed simpler and less expensive at first, pretty quickly becomes the opposite: a more drawn out, complicated, and expensive option.

The Benefits of a Root Canal

If you have a choice, keeping your original tooth is the best option—and a root canal allows you to do just that. Root canals allow your tooth to function normally. Keeping your natural tooth comes with many advantages, including:

- Your teeth maintain their natural appearance.

- You benefit from normal sensation, biting force, and efficient chewing ability.

- You protect the surrounding teeth and gums from needless harm.

Root canals get a bad rap, when in reality, they’re a great option to maintain the function of natural teeth in a healthy way. A root canal will allow you to keep your natural smile. If cared for properly, teeth treated with a root canal can last for years—even a lifetime.

Want to Learn More?

If you’re faced with the tough choice of a root canal or extraction for an infected tooth, let us help you. The staff at Van Nuys FamilyDentistry is your trusted resource for sound dental health information and expert treatment in the North Hollywood area. We’re excited to help you achieve the healthy, happy smile you deserve. Contact us today!

Gum Disease — Catch it early!

Gum disease is one of the most common dental health problems today. Left unchecked, this disease can lead to serious dental and general health problems. Even if your oral health seems good, it’s crucial to know the signs before there are serious consequences to your gums, teeth and overall health.

Why Does it Matter?                                                          

Your Health is at Stake

Gum disease can be downright devastating to your dental health, resulting in pain, discomfort, and eventually tooth loss. But beyond that, it has been linked to a number of different conditions and chronic diseases, including heart disease, dementia, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and premature birth. It is thought that the bacteria and inflammation, over time, cause problems throughout the body.

Earlier Treatment Leads to Better Outcomes

Gum disease has three stages: gingivitis, early periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. During its initial stage, gum disease is usually reversible with regular professional cleanings and daily brushing and flossing. The prognosis is good when gum disease is caught early, and your gums can be returned to a normal, healthy state.

When permitted to advance to the subsequent stages, though, more intervention is necessary, and the condition is usually not reversible. Early periodontitis and advanced periodontitis usually require care that extends beyond things you can do at home. Typically, this involves reducing the size of pockets that develop between the gums and teeth. In the most extreme cases, bone grafts may be needed to prevent tooth loss.

What Are the Signs?

It’s important to know the signs of gum disease and seek treatment promptly. A major challenge of detecting gum disease early are the seemingly unalarming symptoms early on. Often the only sign of gum disease in its early stages is bleeding gums during brushing and flossing. This may or may not be accompanied by tenderness or continuous bad breath. As the disease advances and as the gums deteriorate, bleeding may subside with no further symptoms until the teeth begin to loosen.

I Think I Might Have Gum Disease, What’s Next?

If you suspect you may have gum disease—whether in its beginning or later stages—contact Dr. Hanasab’s office in North Hollywood or Van Nuys for a consultation. Our experienced staff can help you get on the right track with your dental health. Whether your gum disease is in the early stages or has progressed beyond that, we can help you achieve a bright and healthy smile for years to come.