root canal v. extraction

[jpd73]

About 6 months ago I was told I would need a root canal because I have a lot of decay in one tooth.  The tooth in question is the last tooth on the upper left hand side, number 16?  It has recently started to really hurt and I will be going to a dentist soon.  

My question is since it's way in the back can I just have it extracted to avoid the cost, pain and future complications associated with a root canal?

In general, I brush at least twice a day and floss everyday.

Thank you.

[Jerome Tsang, DDS]

Of course.  You can always have any tooth extracted and its always an option.  The question is, why would you want to remove a tooth that you can save.  If the prognosis of the tooth isn't good (as in the chance of success is low) then an extraction would be the proper treatment.  But if you can save the tooth, that's definitely the better option.  Replacing the tooth with a dental implant would be more costly and more time.  Additionally, if you remove the tooth and not replace it, you lose use of the lower molar that is opposite of it so you're losing two teeth in some ways and some of the chewing efficiency with having a full set of teeth.  

[scottma]

Tooth #16 is a wisdom tooth, which is generally indicated for extraction, unless specific condition dictates .

[jpd73]

Sorry, I've had my wisdom teeth out.  So it must be the next one in line.