Saving your natural tooth with a root canal is usually the preferred option, as it preserves your bite and jaw structure. Extraction is typically a last resort for teeth that are too damaged to save. A dentist will need an X-ray to recommend the best path. For temporary pain relief, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are highly effective. If there is an active bacterial infection, your dentist may prescribe an antibiotic such as amoxicillin. Please see a dentist promptly for a proper evaluation, as antibiotics will only manage infection temporarily and cannot cure tooth decay.