Pain is often the last sign something is wrong. A root canal tooth can harbour a low-level infection that doesn't cause obvious pain but may still be placing a quiet burden on your immune system. For otherwise healthy people, this is usually not a major concern. But if you're dealing with other health issues, fatigue, or autoimmune problems, it's worth having the tooth assessed properly.

Sometimes a tooth simply can't be saved — decay or a crack has gone too deep, the nerve is infected beyond repair, or the tooth is structurally failing. Wisdom teeth are also commonly removed when they're growing at the wrong angle or causing crowding. We'll only recommend an extraction when keeping the tooth isn't a realistic option.

We don't place implants immediately — the bone needs 6–12 months to heal fully first. In the meantime, or as a longer-term solution, options include a dental implant (a ceramic or titanium post with a crown on top), a bridge (a false tooth anchored to the teeth either side), or a partial denture. Some patients choose to leave the space if it's not causing bite problems. We'll talk through what makes the most sense for you.

Yes, a little. It involves more steps — ozone rinse, careful removal of the surrounding ligament, socket preparation to encourage clean bone healing, and natural healing supplements. Root canal teeth are also more brittle and can be more difficult to remove in one piece, which takes more time and care. We'll always give you a clear quote upfront.

Not necessarily. A root canal in itself is a legitimate procedure for saving a tooth. The concern for holistic dentists is that it's impossible to sterilise every microscopic channel inside a tooth root completely. Over time, bacteria can grow in those spaces and slowly leak into the surrounding bone. For most healthy people, the immune system handles this without issue. But for people with ongoing health challenges, it's worth discussing whether keeping or removing a root canal tooth is the better long-term choice.

It's worth having the tooth assessed — and possibly removed — if you notice any of these: pain when biting down, visible swelling in the gum or face, a bad smell or taste near the tooth, a pimple that comes and goes on the gums,  or the tooth has gone noticeably darker. Any of these signs suggest the tooth may be actively infected and affecting the surrounding bone.