07 Mar Can I avoid tooth extraction if I have a cracked tooth?
Has your tooth become chipped or cracked? When a tooth is injured, it is important to seek professional treatment as soon as you can to salvage your natural tooth. Waiting too long to treat a crack or chip can cost you your tooth. A tooth extraction can often be avoided by receiving root canal treatment and a restoration from a dentist. Following is some helpful information on preventing the need for a tooth extraction.
Why do cracked teeth need to be extracted?
When a tooth is severely damaged or diseased, its removal may be necessary to prevent oral health complications such as the development of an abscess. A cracked, chipped, or badly decayed tooth exposes the root canal to oral debris and infection-causing bacteria. An extraction is done to preserve neighboring structures affected by an abscessed tooth.
How can root canal treatment save my tooth?
Root canal treatment is an endodontic procedure that removes the infection inside a tooth. This type of treatment can prevent the development of an abscess, relieve pain and discomfort, and restore comfortable oral function.
What is the root canal exactly?
The root canal is a hollowed area inside the root of a tooth. Inside this canal are dental pulp and nerve endings. Since it contains nerve endings, an infected root canal is quite painful for most patients.
When is root canal therapy needed?
Root canal therapy is necessary when the inside of the tooth (the nerves and dental pulp) are inflamed and infected. Without this treatment, the infection can spread and also destroy the rest of the tooth’s structure. Any time a dental injury or decay exposes the root canal to oral bacteria, a patient is at risk for losing their tooth.
Will I need a filling or crown after endodontic treatment?
That depends on your situation. Some patients with worn down and cracked teeth will require a restoration to bring a tooth back to its proper size and shape. After an examination, your dentist can determine which treatment(s) is best for you.
For more information, contact The Dental Place at 972-264-5795 to reserve an appointment.