A Bridge Might Be Needed to Restore a Severely Decayed Tooth

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When tooth decay afflicts a tooth, the bacteria will gradually spread. Any procrastination in seeking professional treatment at Central Oregon Dental Center could severely compromise the tooth. In time, this could cause the tooth to badly fracture or it could allow a dangerous infection to develop in the root.

Sometimes Dr. Michael Hall can treat a tooth in this condition with a root canal. In an extreme case, the tooth might be so severely compromised that all the remnants need to be extracted to prevent further complications or infection.

When your gums have fully healed, Dr. Michael Hall can help restore the tooth’s presence in your mouth with a dental bridge. This has a false tooth that is fused to a pair of dental crowns on each end. It will eventually anchor onto abutments that are formed from the two nearest teeth.

Dr. Michael Hall will create the two abutments by removing the enamel layer of each anchoring tooth. The dentin sheaths surrounding the healthy pulp and root will later help anchor the dental bridge in place.

A detailed impression will be created of the area. This will include the two abutments, the surrounding teeth and any other teeth related teeth in your unique dentition. This will be sent to a dental lab where your new bridge will be made. Temporary crowns will then be cemented over each abutment to protect them while we await the completion of your new bridge.

A second appointment will be scheduled when the bridge is ready. To install the bridge, Dr. Michael Hall will remove the temporary crowns and will cement your bridge onto the abutments with a strong dental adhesive.

If you live in the Bend, Oregon, area and you have a tooth suffering from untreated decay, you should call 541-389-0300 to have it treated at Central Oregon Dental Center.