Tooth decay generally starts out as a small area of bacterial exploitation on the enamel layer of a tooth. At first you might not notice more than a minor change in texture or increased sensitivity. If you choose not to pursue timely treatment with Dr. Bennett R. Shanker, the decay will gradually continue to spread.
In time, it could infect the root or compromise so much of the enamel that the tooth fractures near the gumline. Sometimes a tooth in this dire condition can be treated and restored with a root canal and dental crown. If the tooth has been severely compromised or if a serious infection has formed in the gums, your dentist might recommend a total tooth extraction.
Once your gums have fully healed, he can help you get a better understanding of your treatment options. One effective method is to have the tooth replaced by a dental bridge.
This piece of dental work is a replacement tooth that has been fused to a pair of dental crowns. Each end of the bridge is cemented onto abutments that are formed out of the core of the two neighboring teeth.
Your dentist will use a drill to remove the tooth enamel from each tooth to create a pair of abutments. These are essentially protective sheaths of dentin that house the healthy pulp, root and nerve of each tooth. Temporary crowns will then be secured over each abutment to protect them.
A detailed impression of the abutments will be created. This will be sent to a dental lab to serve as a guide while the technicians prepare your bridge.
When it’s ready, we will call you to schedule a follow-up appointment to have the bridge installed. Once it has been cemented onto the abutments, it will replace the previously decayed tooth for many years to come.
If you live in the Bridgeton, New Jersey, area and you have a tooth suffering from tooth decay, you should call 856-455-1183 to seek treatment at Shanker Dental.