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Does a Front Tooth Always Need a Crown After Root Canal?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

My dentist put my upper left tooth back I place because it was knocked out. He put the tooth back in and bonded it. He also did a root canal on the tooth. The tooth has turned darker than my other tooth, and my dentist said I probably need a crown. Is a crown on a root canal front tooth a good idea? Is there a way we can save the tooth without a crown? Thank you. Sahba from NJ

 

Sahba,

It’s important to consider the potential risks of a crown on a front tooth. It increases the risk of the tooth breaking from lateral stress, especially if you have a heavy bite when eating.

Why Does a Root Canal Tooth Turn Dark?

Teeth often discolor after root canal treatment. After removing the infected tooth pulp, a dentist fills the tooth with a filling material or cement. If the dentist leaves some of the filling material in the crown (the part of your tooth above the gumline), the material will discolor the tooth.

How Can a Dentist Lighten a Root Canal Tooth?

A skilled cosmetic dentist can lighten a root canal tooth by removing the root canal filling material from the tooth’s crown. The dentist may also recommend internal bleaching. Afterward, the flexible post can be inserted into the tooth and sealed with dental composite, which can prevent discoloration for several years.

As discoloration occurs, a skilled cosmetic dentist may recommend a porcelain veneer and color match the veneer to the adjacent tooth.

In cases where a front tooth was knocked out and replanted, you may need an X-ray to ensure your body is not eating away at the tooth’s root.  Your dentist did well to preserve your tooth. However, he may not understand how to improve your tooth color. A dentist with advanced cosmetic dentistry training can help.

 

Metairie, Louisiana, dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read how Dr. Delaune strives to be among the best dentists in Metairie.

Will Root Canal Treatment Damage My Porcelain Veneers?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Two of my eight porcelain veneers have a periapical abscess. I thought I had a sinus infection, but my teeth are causing the problem. My dentist referred me to an endodontist for root canals. I am concerned about losing the veneers or having them turn dark. I know the endodontist is a root canal specialist who will focus on the infection—not how my veneers look afterward—but I must get the condition under control. What do you suggest for my veneers? – Thank you. Genesis

Genesis,

It is good to recognize the need to remove the infection and resolve the periapical abscess (pus-filled sac at the tooth root). Otherwise, it will remain in your bone and spread. We are concerned about what led to needing root canal treatment after getting porcelain veneers—and for two teeth.

Porcelain Veneer Preparation and Root Canal Treatment

One porcelain veneer held by dental forceps

Porcelain veneer

It is unusual to require root canal treatment after you receive porcelain veneers. Skilled cosmetic dentists conservatively prepare teeth for porcelain veneers—removing a half millimeter or less of your tooth enamel. With this approach, infection and root canal treatment are extremely rare. Only a stub is left if a dentist aggressively prepares teeth and removes all the enamel. And the dentin (layer beneath the enamel) is exposed.

Some dentists prepare teeth and place full crowns, calling them porcelain veneers instead. Aggressive preparation increases the risk of tooth stress, irritation, and infection, which results in the need for root canal treatment. We hope that aggressive tooth preparation does not cause infection in your teeth.

Root Canal Treatment for Teeth with Porcelain Veneers

A tooth turns dark after root canal treatment, and darkness will show through your veneers, which have some translucence. Most tooth darkening comes from root canal filling material and cement that a dentist leaves in your tooth.

A cosmetic dentist takes these steps to retain the color of your veneers:

  • Clean out root canal filling materials and cement from the tooth
  • Place a flexible, white fiberglass post deep into the root
  • Fill the space with light-colored composite

The results can last five to ten years. And if your dentist placed your veneers correctly, you should not lose them.

If you are unsure about your dentist’s ability to resolve the color issue with your porcelain veneers, you can visit a skilled cosmetic dentist to discuss your options.

Metairie cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read details about how Dr. Delaune strives to provide some of the best dental care in Metairie.

 

Can I Get a Refund If a Dentist Did the Wrong Treatment?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I’ve been a patient at a large dental chain for the past four years. Depending on my circumstances, I’ve had work done at two locations – one close to home and the other near work. When I recently visited the office near my house, the dentist asked me who placed fillings on two molar teeth because they looked deteriorated on my x-rays. She said that I probably needed root canal treatment and crowns.

After I told the dentist that I received the fillings at the same practice to replace old silver fillings with white ones, she was silent for a few seconds. She explained that an infection would worsen the situation if I didn’t get root canals and new crowns.

I got a second opinion at a dental practice that is not a chain. The dentist confirmed that I needed root canal treatment and crowns. I’m unsure why the chain dental practice didn’t recognize that before wasting my money on fillings. How can I get a refund before leaving this practice? Thank you. Sierra from AL

 

Sierra,

We are sorry to hear about your experience. Placing composite fillings takes more skill and time than placing silver fillings. However, composite fillings are healthier for teeth, and when completed correctly by a cosmetic dentist, they preserve tooth structure and seal out bacteria. If you needed crowns instead of fillings, a dentist misjudged the condition of your teeth.

We recommend getting another second opinion to confirm that you need root canal treatment and dental crowns. Ask for a copy of your dental records from the chain dental practice.

Also, be upfront about getting another second opinion. If you want the work done by the first dentist from whom you received a second opinion, explain your disappointment with your treatment. Also, ask if they will help you get a refund from the chain for placing defective composite fillings or placing them when you need crowns.

After your new second opinion, if the dentist agrees that you need root canal treatment and crowns, ask your new dentist to call the dentist who placed the fillings. Your dentist should explain:

  • You received an independent second opinion
  • You need root canal treatment and crowns
  • You want a refund

If the dentist from the chain dental practice doesn’t want to issue a refund, you can do three things:

  1. Explain that you will post online reviews on social media and any review platforms the practice uses.
  2. Tell the dentist you will file a complaint with the state dental board.
  3. Explain that you are willing to speak with an attorney to help resolve the issue, although you probably don’t have a big malpractice case.

Although we can’t guarantee that the dentist will refund you, you can try.

Large dental practices usually have high overhead costs and are driven to be profitable. They often hire many dentists who come and go. Depending on which day of the week you have an appointment, you may receive care from multiple dentists. It can be challenging to establish a relationship with one dentist you trust. However, not all large practices are the same. Some consistently offer high-quality care.

Generally, dentists at smaller practices have a higher level of care, ethics, and professionalism. We hope your new dentist will restore your teeth and help you regain good oral health.

 

Metairie cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read details about how Dr. Delaune strives to provide some of the best dental care in Metairie

Is It Risky to Get a Root Canal on a Porcelain Veneer Tooth?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I need a root canal on my top right incisor. The tooth has a veneer over it. Is the procedure risk? Will it ruin my veneer and require replacement? Thanks. Darcie from NJ

Darcie,

Root canal treatment on a porcelain veneer tooth is rare, so we are concerned about what caused the tooth abscess. An abscess is an infection at the root tip that can spread to the bone without treatment, so treating it is a priority.

Why Might a Porcelain Veneer Tooth Require Root Canal?

If a dentist aggressively prepares a porcelain veneer tooth, it may require root canal treatment. Aggressive preparation can result in more significant stress, irritation, and inflammation on a tooth, leading to infection, which may require root canal treatment. If bacteria leak behind the veneer, it can also cause an infection that, if left untreated, may need root canal treatment. Regardless of the cause, delaying treatment will only worsen the situation.

Will a Root Canal Damage a Porcelain Veneer Tooth?

Root canal treatment can darken any tooth, primarily due to the discoloration caused by the root canal filling material. While a porcelain veneer has some translucence, the darkness may show through it. However, your dentist can minimize the discoloration by:

  • Cleaning out the root canal filling material from the tooth crown (the portion above the gumline)
  • Placing a white, flexible fiberglass post into the root
  • Filling the space with a light shade of dental composite

Typically, cleaning out the root canal filler material from the crown and filling lasts five to ten years.

Will a Root Canal Damage a Porcelain Veneer?

Root canal treatment should not loosen or damage your porcelain veneer if the dentist who originally placed your veneers bonded them correctly. Unless the endodontist assesses that the condition of your tooth is dire, you will not need a dental implant.

If you still have concerns about your tooth and veneer, consider scheduling a second-opinion appointment with a skilled cosmetic dentist.

Metairie cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read details about how Dr. Delaune strives to provide some of the best dental care in Metairie. Ask Delaune Dental about financing to help pay for dental care.

 

How Can I Treat a Tooth Infection at Home?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

How can I treat a tooth infection at home? I do not have dental insurance, so I need some advice. The toothache hurts daily, and yesterday, the swelling in my left cheek increased. What can I do for the infection until I save enough money to see a dentist? Rhoda

 

Rhoda,

How Can You Treat a Tooth Infection at Home?

You cannot treat a tooth infection at home because it is inside the tooth, which neither you nor antibiotics alone can reach. You need professional care from a dentist to remove the infection.

How Can You Treat a Tooth Infection?

A dentist must perform root canal treatment for a tooth infection. Although a dentist may prescribe antibiotics after root canal treatment, the medication alone will not eliminate the infection. Consider three reasons:

  • Location of the infection – Antibiotics cannot remove the infection from the tooth pulp.
  • Infection requires removal – A dentist uses instruments to perform root canal treatment and remove the infective tooth pulp. Without removing the infected tissue, the bacteria in your tooth will become antibiotic resistant. A dentist will protect your weakened tooth with a dental crown.
  • Tooth infections spread – Untreated tooth infections spread to your gums, other teeth, jawbone, and even into your bloodstream, which can be deadly.

What If You Cannot Afford Root Canal Treatment?

Diagram of root canal phases, including numbing the tooth, widening, cleaning, and filling canals and attaching a dental crown.

Only root canal treatment removes a tooth infection

If you cannot afford root canal treatment, allow a dentist to remove the tooth rather than let the infection spread. However, preserving a tooth has these benefits:

  • A missing tooth causes neighboring teeth to drift into the space.
  • Missing teeth can affect chewing or speech.
  • Misaligned teeth can lead to earaches, headaches, jaw pain, and other TMJ disorder issues.

Consider a dental clinic

Look for a free or low-cost dental clinic in your area. Even if they don’t provide root canal treatment, they can extract an infected tooth to prevent the infection from poisoning your body.

Call dental offices

Call local dental offices to ask about payment plans or health care financing if you can pay for dental care in installments.

Your oral health and well-being are worth searching for options to eliminate a tooth infection even though you don’t have dental insurance.

Metairie cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read details about how Dr. Delaune strives to provide some of the best dental care in Metairie.

 

Can a Tooth Pushed Out of Place Be Repositioned?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Last month, I had an accident that pushed my tooth back. I want Invisalign to reposition the tooth, but my dentist says nothing can be done further to move the tooth. The tooth root got moved forward and poked my upper lip. I could feel it in my nostril. My dentist said he repositioned the tooth as best he could. He said that he might be able to do something cosmetically. But the sensation in my nostril is uncomfortable, and the tooth is clearly out of place. Do I really have to live with this? Will braces help? Thanks. Ryan

Ryan,

We wish you could have seen a dentist within a day or so of the accident. If a tooth injury is new, a dentist can move it back into place and stabilize it to prevent it from moving.

Can a Tooth Pushed Out of Place Be Repositioned?

When a tooth is pushed out of place, a skilled dentist or endodontist (root canal specialist) can do the following:

  • Reposition the tooth
  • Stabilize it until it heals
  • Perform root canal treatment within a few days of the injury
  • Protect the tooth with a permanent filling or a crown

If your dentist did not reposition the tooth, orthodontics can do it. Now, you must wait until your tooth fully heals. Invisalign or braces will reposition your front teeth relatively quickly. If you have no problems with your bite and no TMJ symptoms, you can only get Invisalign for your upper teeth.

Root Canal Treatment for a Damaged Tooth

When a tooth is knocked out of place, the pulp (living tissue inside) is usually damaged. You will probably need root canal treatment to remove the tooth pulp. Your dentist or a root canal specialist (endodontist) must clean root canal cement and filler inside the tooth’s crown. Otherwise, your tooth will turn dark over time. If the crown is left clean, it takes years for the tooth to darken.

You can schedule a consultation with an orthodontist provider to examine your tooth and determine when you can begin treatment.

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

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.