WWYD - wisdom tooth removal / root canal

[Goodebe]

I’ve got to have a wisdom tooth out. The tooth next to it is being affected badly to the point where it’s ‘touch and go’ wether it needs to come out too or attempt a root canal which might last a ‘few years’ (dentists words)

So wise ones... do I get them out together under the same procedure and a single payment, or try to keep the second molar tooth - More costly, time consuming, generally dislike the dentist so not my idea of fun... I’m in two minds. I’m 40 if that makes any difference, no other teeth missing - one or two small fillings. TIA.

It's better to keep your natural teeth where possible. But if your dentist is pessimistic about the prognosis then that might indicate an extraction is better. About 90% of root filled teeth will be good for a decade or more so "a few years" is poor.

On the other hand there's a possibility that an unethical dentist would push the treatment that's more profitable rather than what's best for the patient. Implants to replace removed teeth are ££££s. So do you consider your dentist trustworthy? If not, you could get a second opinion.

Definition of "few" = greater than a 100 in some contexts. I have seen BBC define "few" as 38. You need to ask what "few" means. The word is meaningless for your decision making.

If it would likely last at least 10 yrs then no brainer, I'd get root canal. It's not great thing to endure (I've had one) but is bearable.

I had this dilemma. I opted to retain the second tooth. I had root canal treatment and so far its lasted 15 years.

I had three wisdom teeth out at once ehen I was 33. Had a GA but all was fine. Wisdom teeth just cause so much trouble and I'm much happier now they have gone. Mine stank. Couldn't clean them at all with any implement or waterpik.

I've got root canals that are 35 years. The dentist took about 4 hours to do them. It wasn't nice. But she did such a thorough job and removed all the root so they have lasted.

I'd pay to go to an orthodontist if at all possible and get the best possible job you can and keep the molar.

Thanks everyone for the advice
Just to update, I had my Xrays sent to another dentist for a second opinion, she agreed that the tooth is beyond saving... suggested I consider an implant if I can’t manage with the gap. At least a decision is made...

Implants are a lot of work..