When you’re dealing with severe tooth pain or infection, your dentist might give you two main options: a root canal or a tooth extraction. Both can relieve pain — but they have very different long-term effects on your comfort, oral health, and wallet.
At Eastern Idaho Endodontics, we help patients across Idaho Falls, Rexburg, Pocatello, Burley, Hailey, and Wyoming make confident, informed decisions about their dental care. Here’s what you should know when comparing a root canal vs extraction.
Cost Comparison: Root Canal vs Extraction
When it comes to cost, many people assume an extraction is the cheaper option. While that’s true upfront, it’s not always true long-term.
Root Canal Costs
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Average cost: $800–$1,500 depending on the tooth
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Often covered by dental insurance
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Usually followed by a crown to restore strength and appearance
A root canal saves your natural tooth, preventing the need for future tooth replacement. That means no implants, bridges, or shifting teeth — which can save you thousands later.
Extraction Costs
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Average cost: $150–$300 for a simple extraction; up to $500+ for surgical
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Tooth replacement (implant, bridge, or denture) adds $2,000–$4,000 or more
So while an extraction might seem less expensive upfront, replacing the missing tooth can make it two to four times more expensive in the long run.
Verdict: A root canal usually offers better long-term value.
Comfort and Recovery: Which Feels Better?
Modern dentistry has come a long way — and both treatments can now be surprisingly comfortable. But there are still key differences.
Root Canal Comfort
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Performed under local anesthesia
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Patients often describe it as similar to getting a filling
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Mild soreness for 1–2 days afterward
At Eastern Idaho Endodontics, we use advanced 3D imaging and modern anesthesia techniques to make root canal treatments gentle and virtually pain-free. Many patients are surprised by how easy it is.
Extraction Comfort
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Local anesthesia used
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Some pressure or tugging during removal
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Post-extraction pain and swelling may last several days
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Higher chance of dry socket or infection if aftercare isn’t followed
Verdict: For comfort and faster recovery, the root canal wins again.
Long-Term Health and Function
Your teeth are designed to work together — removing one can affect your whole mouth.
After a Root Canal:
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The natural tooth stays in place
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Chewing function is fully preserved
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Jawbone health and tooth alignment remain stable
After an Extraction:
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Missing teeth can cause neighboring teeth to shift or tilt
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Bone loss in the jaw can occur over time
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Gaps can make chewing harder and affect speech
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May lead to bite issues or TMJ problems
Verdict: For long-term oral health, saving your natural tooth with a root canal is almost always the better option.
When Is Extraction the Right Choice?
While saving your tooth is ideal, there are some cases where an extraction makes more sense:
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The tooth is too damaged or decayed to restore
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A fracture extends below the gum line
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Severe bone loss from periodontal disease
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The tooth cannot be accessed or repaired safely
If extraction is necessary, our team works closely with your dentist or oral surgeon to plan the best replacement option — whether that’s an implant, bridge, or partial denture.
The Eastern Idaho Endodontics Approach
Our goal is simple: to relieve your pain and save your natural tooth whenever possible.
With advanced technology, precision diagnostics, and a compassionate touch, we make root canal therapy a comfortable, anxiety-free experience for every patient.
If you’re facing a decision between root canal vs extraction, don’t guess — let our experts help you find the healthiest, most cost-effective solution for your smile.
Serving You Across Idaho & Wyoming
We proudly serve patients in:
Rexburg, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Burley, Hailey, Jackson Hole, and Pinedale.
Ready to Get Relief?
If you’re struggling with tooth pain or infection, contact Eastern Idaho Endodontics today.
Let’s save your tooth, relieve your pain, and protect your long-term oral health.
