Root canal or tooth extraction?

I am in a bind, as I do not have dental insurance at the moment, and I've got an infection in my mouth from a broken filling or fractured tooth. The dentist insists I have a root canal, but that is financially impossible right now, since he wants payment in full with the completion of the work - and I don't have the money. I am taking amoxicillin to kill the infection. Could I wait till I have a new job and insurance to get the root canal, or would an extraction be cheaper right now? I'm a 44 y

Answers from doctors (1)


Oak Park Dental Associates

Published on Aug 02, 2011

I am sorry you are going through this. Unfortunately, you need to treat the problem as soon as you can. Extraction may be a cheaper alternative but you have to weigh the options. Root canal could be a more conservation solution only when the tooth is mostly in tact. If the tooth is missing most of the structure above the gums, it may be more conservative to remove tooth and place implants. Every situation is unique. Ask many questions so that you understand why they recommend the treatment. The amoxicillin is only good for treating the infection around the tooth. The source of the infection is coming from the tooth itself which won't be treated until the root canal is performed. So it will not work long term and your body cannot depend on the antibiotics as it will build resistance.

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Answered by Oak Park Dental Associates

I am sorry you are going through this. Unfortunately, you need to treat the problem as soon as you can. Extraction may be a cheaper alternative but you have to weigh the options. Root canal could be a more conservation solution only when the tooth is mostly in tact. If the tooth is missing most of the structure above the gums, it may be more conservative to remove tooth and place implants. Every situation is unique. Ask many questions so that you understand why they recommend the treatment. The amoxicillin is only good for treating the infection around the tooth. The source of the infection is coming from the tooth itself which won't be treated until the root canal is performed. So it will not work long term and your body cannot depend on the antibiotics as it will build resistance.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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