3 Popular Treatments That Will Save a Natural Tooth

Many different treatments are available that can be used to save a natural tooth. That is good news for people who find themselves dealing with a natural tooth that is in danger of being lost. There is no need to panic, here are 3 popular treatments that can be used to restore the function and strength of a tooth.

Treatments that can save a natural tooth

1. Crowns

Also called caps, crowns are dental prosthetics that are used to protect a badly-damaged tooth and prevent it from further damage. It also restores the natural function and appearance of the tooth in question.

Crowns are typically used to protect badly-decayed, cracked, broken or fractured teeth. It removes the need for extractions since the rest of the tooth and its roots are protected from further damage.

2. Root canals

A root canal is one of the popular options when it comes to replacing a missing tooth. While root canals have a poor reputation as some sort of painful procedure, that could not be further from the truth. A root canal is a straightforward and virtually painless dental procedure. All the patient feels is the dentist working on the tooth and vibrations from some of the tools being used.

Root canals are typically performed when a tooth has been severely damaged by decay, and the pulp chamber has been compromised. The pulp becomes susceptible to infections, and contact with irritants in the mouth like saliva and food particles can lead to severe toothaches.

During a root canal, the dentist will give the patient a shot of anesthetic, then a drill is used to access the pulp chamber. This area is then cleaned using a series of files. The dentist follows that up by applying medication and sealing up the tooth. It is then covered with a crown to protect it.

3. Composite bonding/fillings

Fillings and composite resin can be used to deal with cavities caused by tooth decay. These treatments can also be used to deal with chips, cracks, and fractures. Cavities make teeth hollow, and that weakens them. Filling up these holes helps to restore the tooth's strength and its natural functions.

Fillings can be made from a wide range of materials like amalgam, silver, and gold. It is one of the most affordable procedures performed by dentists, and some fillings can last for up to a decade with good oral hygiene.

Composite resins are becoming more popular since these have the same color as real teeth. It blends right in with the rest of the patient's natural teeth so those around them cannot tell that they have had any work done.

During the application of composites, the dentist will prepare the patient's tooth with phosphoric acid. The bond is then applied directly to the tooth and shaped as desired. The material is then hardened with ultraviolet light.

We are always here to help!

Dealing with a natural tooth that is badly damaged? Contact one of our dentists today. We are ready to help guide you in making the best decisions for your oral health. Contact us today. 

Call (414) 888-4000 today to reach Eastside Dental.