When tooth pain strikes, it’s tempting to ignore it or delay treatment, hoping it will go away. But waiting too long to address dental problems can lead to more complex and costly procedures. For many in Sangamon County, deciding between a root canal and a tooth extraction is about more than just comfort.
It’s also a financial decision with long-term oral health consequences. At Renken Dentistry – Schön Dental in Springfield, IL, Dr. Renken helps patients understand the best course of action based on their specific needs and budget.
Understanding the True Cost of Waiting
Delaying dental treatment doesn’t just prolong discomfort. It can also lead to greater damage and higher costs. For example, a tooth that could have been saved with a timely root canal may deteriorate further if left untreated, requiring extraction and potentially more expensive restorative solutions like implants. Waiting too long can result in:
- Increased pain and swelling due to infection
- Greater risk of adjacent teeth becoming compromised
- Costlier procedures like bridges, dentures, or implants down the road
- Time off work and more frequent trips to the dentist
Acting early can keep your treatment simpler, less invasive, and much more affordable in the long run.
Root Canal: A Cost-Effective Investment
Though often misunderstood, a root canal isn’t something to fear. It’s a proven treatment that removes infection from a tooth’s root while preserving the outer structure. A root canal preserves the tooth and eliminates the need for an extraction.
Not only are they less invasive, but root canals are also much less expensive over time compared to extractions, since there’s no need to replace an extracted tooth with a partial denture, bridge, or dental implant. The benefits of choosing a root canal include:
- Preservation of your natural tooth
- Lower long-term maintenance costs
- Reduced risk of bone loss in the jaw
- Maintain both oral function and cosmetic appearance
At Dr. Renken’s Springfield practice, root canals are done with precision and patient comfort in mind, making the procedure an efficient and cost-conscious choice for those in need of relief.
Tooth Extraction: When It’s Necessary and Its Hidden Costs
While tooth extraction may seem like the quicker and cheaper option upfront, it often comes with a hidden price. Removing a tooth without replacing it can lead to shifting teeth, jawbone deterioration, and future dental problems that result in more out-of-pocket expenses. Some financial and health drawbacks of extraction can include:
- Need for dental implants or bridges to maintain oral structure
- Higher long-term costs to replace missing teeth
- Impact on bite and chewing ability
- Potential changes in facial appearance over time
However, tooth extractions are still sometimes the best option if a tooth is too decayed or damaged to save with a root canal. At Renken Dentistry – Schön Dental, our team provides conservative care, and we will only recommend extractions if we truly believe they are your best option.
Making the Right Decision for Your Oral Health and Budget
Choosing between a root canal and extraction should be based on more than just immediate costs. Consider long-term dental health, quality of life, and overall affordability. In Springfield, IL, Dr. Renken works closely with patients to develop treatment plans tailored to their goals.
Whether that means saving a damaged tooth or opting for a carefully managed extraction and restoration solution, you can trust us to offer expert advice. With our team on your side, you’ll be able to make a decision that protects both your smile and your wallet for years to come.
Schedule a Consultation Today in Springfield
Don’t let uncertainty or fear of cost lead to bigger problems. If you’re weighing the choice between a root canal vs. extraction, call Renken Dentistry – Schön Dental today at (217) 635-3782 to schedule your consultation. Dr. Renken and his team in Springfield are here to help residents of Sangamon County make informed, confident decisions for their dental health.