The biggest factor a dentist looks at when deciding if a tooth can be saved is how much “good” tooth structure there is left. If the tooth is broken at the gumline and has a big cavity that goes down to the bone then there is little hope that the tooth can be saved.
Wisdom Teeth
These teeth, also known as the third molars, can cause problems with other teeth as they tend to push other teeth to the side, causing them to become misaligned. Many dentists suggest removal of the wisdom teeth before they are completely developed.
In reality, it is never too late to fix bad teeth, though in some cases, the fix is the extraction of a dead tooth. However, with the help of your skilled Billings, MT dentist, your teeth can be properly taken care of, and you can start enjoying your smile again.
The only alternative to root canal therapy is to remove an infected tooth, to prevent the infection from spreading. This may be necessary if the tooth is not able to be saved, or if an infection comes back.
The most difficult indirect restoration to fabricate from an esthetic perspective is the maxillary central incisor.
If tooth decay has spread to the pulp (in the centre of the tooth, containing blood and nerves) – this may be removed in a process known as root canal treatment. If the tooth is so badly damaged that it can't be restored – it may need to be removed.
The most common congenitally missing teeth tend to be: Upper lateral incisors – these are the two teeth that sit on either side of your two front teeth. Lower central incisors – these are the two front teeth in the lower jaw. Second premolars – these are the teeth right in front of your molars.
If the tooth is broken, your dentist might still be able to place a crown over it – as long as the break isn't too severe. They'll use composite resin to patch up the crack and then place the crown over the top.
Root Canals Aren't Possible with Severe Infection
If the deepest layers of the pulp become infected, it may be too late to save the tooth. In addition, if a large portion of the tooth is lost and a crown cannot be placed on what's left, root canal treatment is no longer a viable solution.
In most cases, at least two millimeters of tooth structure is required in order to place a crown. Generally, this means that at least one-quarter of the visible portion of the tooth must be present and healthy enough to support a dental crown.
Your Teeth Can't Be Repaired
You may need a tooth extraction if your tooth is damaged beyond repair. This could happen when bacteria can get inside your tooth and affect the pulp. When the pulp of the tooth is damaged, it becomes very difficult to save. In some cases, a root canal may help.
If only a small piece of your tooth broke off, your dental professional might be able to protect the remainder of the tooth with a crown or filling. If the fracture is severe, endodontic surgery may be required to remove the fractured portion to protect the pulp and the tooth.
A tooth can become so severely compromised that very little of the structure remains or the root is unable to provide support. And sometimes, an infection is so severe that root canal treatment and antibiotics don't do the trick.
When it comes to root canal vs. extraction, a root canal is the better option when possible. Root canal treatment is safer than extraction, and it allows the patient to keep their natural tooth. According to the East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine, there are 41,000 root canals performed every day.
A root canal is the only way to save a dead tooth and involves removing the pulp and cleaning the site to prevent infections. Once the pulp has been removed and the area thoroughly cleansed, a filling will be placed in the opening and the roots will be sealed.
If a tooth's pulp (nerve) is diseased, traumatized, or dead, it must be removed to save the tooth, and then replaced with a root canal filling.
Can a tooth that needs a root canal heal itself? Unfortunately, the infected pulp of the tooth will not heal on its own and requires a root canal to properly be treated.
Contrary to popular belief, a cavity can develop beneath a crown. Tooth decay can form at the margins of a crown or even underneath its surface.
A tooth can survive for several weeks without a crown. However, this is not advisable as your teeth remain exposed. This could make your teeth sensitive to hot or cold temperatures and cause further damage. If you would not like to use a crown on your tooth, you could use dental veneers as an alternative for crowns.
A crown is the better option if you have a tooth that can and should be salvaged. For example, a cracked tooth can be repaired and protected with a crown. It will cover the entire tooth down to the gum line, forming a hard shell over it. In many cases, this can be enough to protect the tooth from continued damage.
Having one missing tooth, or even two missing teeth, shouldn't be a big deal, right? Wrong. Any number of missing teeth can cause serious oral and overall health issues. Ultimately, tooth loss begets more tooth loss.
Missing even one tooth will affect the normal chewing process. Missing teeth can lead to only being able to consume foods that are easy-to-chew. The change in diet and inability to eat certain foods can lead to digestive problems and other health issues.
In cases where impacted permanent teeth are unable to erupt due to a lack of space, orthodontic treatment is generally required to make more space in the mouth. Then, the impacted tooth is usually uncovered and gently pulled into place over time with orthodontic appliances.
Benefits of saving a natural tooth
When possible, saving your natural teeth is the best option. While today's dental prosthetics are made to last, they simply don't have the same strength as natural teeth. Not only are natural teeth stronger, but they also offer better functionality than prosthetics or crowns.