If you have a tooth with an infected root, you have probably been told that saving your natural tooth is way better than replacing with an artificial one. This is largely true, and endodontic (root canal) treatment is usually the best way to save such a tooth. However, there are also cases when it's best to take the replacement root. For example, saving the natural tooth may not make sense if:
There Is a Low Probability of Success
Before trying to save your tooth via root canal treatment, the dentist will fast evaluate the chances of success. Some of the factors that affect the chances of successful root canal treatment include the extent of the infection, the number of tooth roots, and the patient's level of oral hygiene, among other things. There may be no need to try to save the tooth if the chances of success are closer to 0% than 100%.
The Tooth Is Severely Damaged
When deciding whether to save a tooth or replace it, the dentist will also consider the part of the tooth above the gums. This analysis is used to determine whether there is any tooth worth saving at all. This is because some teeth are so damaged (chipped, cracked or fractured) that the restorative treatment needed is too complicated to be worth it. If you have such a tooth, and its root is also infected, then you may be better off replacing it rather than treating and restoring it.
The Supporting Bone Structure Is Poor
The condition of the supporting bone structure also determines whether the tooth should be saved or not. Don't forget that the root canal treatment will also weaken the tooth, for example, a hole will need to be drilled on the tooth to access its root. If the supporting bone structure is still deteriorating, then it may be a waste of time to try to save the teeth.
The Damage May Spread To Neighboring Teeth
You may also be advised to replace the teeth if the infection you are dealing with has a high risk of spreading to the adjacent teeth. This may be the case, for example, if the dentist fears the risk of a re-infection (for example, if the existing infection is already extensive). It might be best to replace the tooth so that it doesn't affect the nearby ones.
The Tooth Is Unattractive
Lastly, you may also elect to replace the tooth if unattractive, and you want a beautiful smile. This may be the case, for example, if the tooth has the wrong shape or is misaligned and it is also infected. In this case, the dentist can replace it with an artificial one that fits your standard of beautiful teeth.
Check out a website like http://www.thefamilydentist-lakeland.com for more information and assistance.
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