During a root canal, your dentist will remove dead and diseased tissue from inside your tooth to prevent it from spreading and causing more problems. Most of the time this procedure is quite effective and, after a crown is fit over the tooth, function and appearance are both restored. Unfortunately, there are times when the procedure may not work due to advanced tooth decay, fracture, curved roots and other complications.
If the Procedure Fails
If your procedure fails, your dentist is likely to recommend a dental implant. Instead of cleaning out and capping your tooth, the dentist will pull it. In its place he will install a metal post that will fuse with your jawbone and function like the roots of your natural teeth. Once fused, your dentist will place an artificial tooth on the post.
Incomplete Procedures
Ideally, a canal procedure is finished in one sitting and then a permanent crown is made and placed at a later appointment to protect the tooth. Sometimes, however, it is impossible to manually remove all of the infection in the tooth. When that happens, your dentist may make a temporary filling for your tooth and then give you a course of antibiotics before finishing the procedure. This may be referred to as an incomplete canal and is a temporary solution only.
Ensuring Success
There is no way to guarantee a 100 percent success rate, so it’s important to discuss the procedure thoroughly with your dentist before you begin. In some cases an implant may be a better option.
Don’t let the pain of a decaying tooth make your decision for you. Discuss your dental history, x-rays and other factors that could influence success with your dentist and make an informed decision that will provide the most long-term benefit.
Source:
Know Before You Go: Root Canals, askthedentist.com
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