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Why Are My Options for a Calcified Root Canal?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

to check the tooth last week when I had an exam and cleaning. After taking an X-ray, my dentist said the root canal is calcified, and I need root canal treatment and a new crown to prevent the tooth from fracturing. I’ve never heard of root calcification, so I am unsure if a root canal is my only option. I want to get a second opinion but do not want to see another dentist in an emergency because I delayed treatment. Why can’t I get a filling? Will you please explain my options? – Thank you. Silas from Delaware

Silas,

Thank you for your question.

What Is Root Canal Calcification?

Root canal calcification is a condition that occurs when excess calcium builds up in the root channels. Tooth trauma is the most common cause of calcification. After trauma, the following occurs:

  • Calcium deposits are a reaction to trauma to help the tooth repair itself.
  • The calcium deposit fills space in the pulp chamber and root canals.
  • Lack of space makes it challenging for the tooth to heal.

In addition to tooth trauma, calcification occurs as we age when we do not have enough calcium and vitamin C. The root canals can calcify.

Does a Calcified Root Canal Need Treatment?

Diagram of root canal phases, including numbing the tooth, widening, cleaning, and filling canals and attaching a dental crown.A calcified root canal needs treatment if X-rays show signs of infection. An endodontist (root canal specialist) may treat calcified roots using these tools:

  • Dental microscope – Assists in finding calcified channels
  • 3-D CT scan – Locates calcified canals for preserving more tooth structure
  • Ultrasonic dental instrument – Removes small amounts of tooth structure and helps the tooth retain strength.

Depending on its condition, a dentist may use a composite filling on a front tooth. However, back teeth need a crown to withstand the forces of grinding and chewing.

What Happens Without Treatment?

Without treatment, infected calcified channels allow infection to spread in the tooth, your bone, and possibly other teeth.

We recommend scheduling an appointment with a root canal specialist in your area to examine your tooth and determine if it requires treatment. Please do not wait until you have an emergency and possibly end up in the hands of a dentist who is unskilled in treating root canal calcification.

Metairie, Louisiana, dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post.

Are a Tooth Post and Core the Only Way to Save My Tooth?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Before my dental appointment last week, I had not heard of a post and core. My dentist says it will save my tooth. I thought a root canal protects a tooth, and I am trying to understand why I might need the extra step. My dentist’s explanation does not make sense. Why would I need a post and core, and what could happen if I decline it? – Thank you. Roderick from Newark, NJ

Roderick,

Thank you for your question.

Your dentist recommends a post and core to preserve your tooth

What Are a Dental Post and Core?

A dental post is a small rod that helps your tooth support a core. A core is a dental filling material for building your tooth to support a dental crown. Dentists use a post and core to strengthen a weak tooth after root canal treatment.

Why Would a Dentist Recommend a Post and Core?

A dentist may recommend a post and core if you lack enough healthy tooth structure to support a dental crown. Sometimes, a dentist must remove so much tooth decay or damage that little structure remains for cementing on a dental crown. A dentist will complete these steps:

  • Perform root canal therapy to remove tooth decay and infection
  • Insert one or two posts into the tooth
  • Fill in the tooth with dental material
  • Use dental bonding to shape the crown of the tooth
  • Bond the dental crown to the rebuilt tooth

Will You Use a Your Tooth If You Decline a Post and Core?

Dental implant with crown, abutment, and implant screw identified

Dental implant

If you decline a post and core, you may lose your tooth for these reasons:

  • Without a post and core, your weak tooth may not be able to support a dental crown in the long term.
  • If your tooth further weakens, your dentist must remove it.
  • Replacing a missing tooth is expensive. You can expect to pay $3,000 to $5,000 for a dental implant and crown.

If you are unsure about your dentist’s treatment recommendation for a post and core, you may get a second opinion from an advanced cosmetic dentist. Delaying a post and core can create more concerns with your tooth and result in costly treatment.

Dr. Duane Delaune, a Metairie, Louisiana, cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.

Why Do I Need Another Root Canal If I Take Care of My Teeth?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I have two root canal teeth, and during my last visit, my dentist said I would soon need a third one. The first two root canals were completed after filling failed. I grind my teeth, and my dentist said I need another root canal on a cracked tooth that grinding may have caused. I have a night guard, but sometimes I forget to wear it at night. Other than that, I floss my teeth daily and brush them morning and night. Unfortunately, I must delay getting my teeth whitened until after the root canal. I don’t understand what I need to do to avoid root canals in the future. Are some people’s teeth more at risk for root canals? – Thanks. Monroe from Rhode Island

Monroe,

The problems you describe with your teeth are not uncommon. Preparing a tooth for filling requires removing some tooth structure, weakening the tooth. The tooth can become sensitive. And if you grind your teeth, they will experience even more stress. Try these suggestions.

How Can You Avoid Future Root Canal Treatment?

Diagram of root canal phases, including numbing the tooth, widening, cleaning, and filling canals and attaching a dental crown.You can minimize the need for future root canal treatments through at-home care and finding a dentist knowledgeable about the latest techniques for preserving teeth.

  • Wear your night guard – In addition to practicing diligent oral hygiene at home, wear your night guard regularly. A night guard protects your teeth from the forces of grinding.
  • Avoid frequent snacking – Snacking throughout the day releases acid in your mouth that breaks down tooth enamel and weakens teeth. Although some people think brushing their teeth after snacking is the solution, it is not because brushing teeth while they are weak can further wear tooth enamel.
  • Look for high-quality dental care – A dentist with a commitment to continuing education and the latest techniques will provide work to improve your oral health and keep your teeth strong. If you do need fillings or restorative work, a skilled dentist will use techniques that minimize the impact on your tooth structure.

Although you need a third root canal treatment, if your dentist is not conservative in his treatment, we suggest that you get a second opinion. Root canal treatment weakens teeth, and if your tooth needs a crown afterward, conservatively preparing it will help preserve it. Also, talk to the dentist about your plans for teeth whitening and ask how you can minimize sensitivity during treatment.

Dr. Duane Delaune, a Metairie, Louisiana cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.