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Question:
One of my front teeth suffered a small unnoticable chip from a bully, when I was a kid. It now has the beginnings of a cervical absorption. What is the best way to deal with it? Is the whole tooth a goner? The dentist wants to root canal it, and remove the gum part, to fill the tooth. It is about 1/3 of the way through the top of the tooth.
Should I save the tooth or just get a implant? Maybe, take the tooth down, so the gum is left alone, and then use a pin and have it capped. Does it need a root canal, because it doesn't hurt at all? What would be the best root to go as to taking care of this problem? What is going to happen to this tooth? ...Patrick in PA
Answer:
Patrick, it is impossible to tell without looking at x-rays. I think you're talking about resorption, which is sort of like your body eating the tooth from inside out. Prognosis is usually poor, unless the damage is minimal. A root canal is usually the only way to save it. Obviously a crown is necessary if the tooth is destroyed. An implant is a great option if the dentist cannot
guarantee at least a 5 year time frame.
Editorial Staff
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