When the nerve of a tooth becomes inflamed or infected, the pain is usually intense and the question is inevitable: can it be saved, or does it have to come out? Here is how we assess it.
Why we try to keep the tooth
Whenever possible, keeping your natural tooth is the best option. It preserves your bite, stops the neighbouring teeth from drifting and maintains the bone in that area. A well-done root canal and a well-restored tooth can last for many years.
When root canal treatment is possible
If there is enough healthy tooth left to restore, the root is not fractured and the surrounding gum and bone are in good condition, root canal treatment is usually the recommended option. The tooth is then rebuilt and often protected with a crown.
When extraction is better
- When the root has a vertical fracture.
- When so little tooth is left that it cannot be reliably restored.
- When gum disease has destroyed much of the bone supporting it.
If it has to come out, what next?
A gap that is not filled can cause the neighbouring teeth to tilt and the bone to shrink. The usual options are a dental implant, a bridge or a removable denture. We explain each one, with its timescale and cost, so you can decide with all the information.
The decision is based on tests
Choosing well requires an examination and an X-ray showing the condition of the root and the bone. With these we give you a clear, honest recommendation.
Read more on our root canal treatment and dental implants in Sotogrande pages.
This article is for information only and does not replace a personal assessment at the clinic.
