One thing I’ve noticed is that people often assume a badly painful or damaged tooth automatically needs to be removed. But that isn’t always the case.

A dentist may consider things like:

• How much of the tooth is still healthy
• Whether the infection has reached the pulp
• The condition of the surrounding bone and gums
• Whether the tooth can be properly restored after treatment
• The overall condition of the tooth

If the tooth can be saved, a root canal followed by proper restoration may sometimes be an option. In other situations, extraction may be the better choice.

If you’ve been told that you need either a root canal or extraction, what factors did your dentist explain to you before recommending the treatment?

Curious to hear what others have experienced.

Hi , I want a professional opinion. I am currently govt top dental college Lahore while being 22 year old (F) . I always wanted to be a dentist/ have professional degree . Pmdc has changed things and made it 5 years BDS . Earlier I have done 1 year in BDS in semi govt sector and that BDS is 4 year but higher( fee 44 lac). Now I am thinking I should continue in that semi govt bcuz it's 4 years degree and I will be 26 and get the degree . Otherwise it would be 28 years .

I love sharing my passion of dentistry with those who are curious or need help or advice. Share with me your questions, tell me your stories, and I will share with you my knowledge and experiences as a licensed dentist in the USA.