Root canal and crown vs. extraction

[mgrif]

My 8 year old son has an extensive cavity in tooth #14 and it has to be removed.  He also has an extensive cavity in tooth # 19 which doesn't include the root, like the cavity in #14 does.  The dentist wants to do a root canal and filling in tooth #19 and then a crown when the tooth finishes breaking through the gum.  He also has EXTREME crowding in his lower jaw with his front 4 teeth almost sideways.  I am wondering if it would be better to just extract tooth #19 also instead of putting all the money into a root canal and filling and crown?  Especially considering the severe crowding in his lower jaw.

[dentistdelhi]

I would also like to say that since the age of your child is just 8 years extraction will be a better option compared to root canal.

[dentistdelhi]

cavities are due to improper brushing habits and other reasons like infection yes root canal can be helpful for your child rest you should consult a dentist he will review the problem and suggest you a solution accordingly.

[DrArzooNasiry]

That's a good question because tooth #14 which is going to be extracted is above tooth #19.  Is there a plan for replacing #14?  I agree that you may want to get an Orthodontists input on this.  Keep in mind though that replacing a missing tooth can be more expensive than saving the natural tooth.

Best of Luck

[Jerome Tsang, DDS]

If you are concerned about that, it may not be a bad idea to consult an orthodontist or your dentist about that possibility.  Normally they would remove another tooth (premolar) to create space as the premolar is more towards the middle and the first molar (#19) is further back.