If you’ve got an infected tooth, you’ve probably been given two choices: get a root canal or have the tooth extracted. If you’re like most folks, probably neither prospect sounds too appealing. But in many if not most cases, it makes more sense to keep the tooth. 

We’d love to help you make the right decision for your smile! Call River Valley Endodontics at 651-370-9498 to schedule a consultation in our Stillwater, MN office. In the meantime, check out several reasons a root canal might be your best option:

  • Easier Recovery – Unlike tooth removal, you’ll experience no post-procedure bleeding after a root canal and very little discomfort. You’ll be able to resume your normal activities almost immediately. In contrast, most patients need to take it easy for several days after an extraction. 
  • Less Chance of Complications – When a root canal is performed by an endodontist like Dr. Reeh, complications are exceedingly rare. One of the reasons you need to modify your diet, oral hygiene, and other activities after an extraction is to prevent a painful dry socket, a condition that occurs if the blood clot on your extraction site becomes dislodged.  
  • Better Bone Health – Tooth roots do an important job! They stimulate new bone growth in your jaw. When you lose a tooth and its root, you lose bone density in your jaw – up to 25 percent in the first year alone. This can cause dental problems and, over time, will make you look older too. 
  • Teeth That Stay in Line – If you lose a tooth (from an extraction or other reasons), your nearby teeth can shift out of place. This can cause your bite to become misaligned, which can lead to related problems such as jaw pain and headaches. 

Dr. Reeh can walk you through all of your options during a consultation. To schedule one, call 651-370-9498.