Sometimes we go through heroic efforts to save a tooth. This may involve a root canal and a dental crown – something that becomes necessary when an infection reaches the nerve.
Patients often ask us why we would go through so much effort to save that tooth and ask if it is actually worth the investment.
Saving your natural teeth is important and here is why:
Replacing a Tooth Is More Expensive
A dental implant or bridge will ultimately cost you more than saving your natural tooth. While dental implants are the dental treatment most like having your tooth back again, the process does take a few months and requires surgery, healing time, restoration, and regular monitoring.
A dental bridge actually requires two crowns and an artificial tooth. The cost of a bridge will surpass that of a root canal and crown.
Saving your natural tooth is usually the least expensive method of protecting your smile. At our Encinitas dental office, we focus on prevention.
If You Don’t Replace Your Tooth, It Could Create More Tooth Loss
Leaving a gap in your smile, even if it is not visible, can create more problems in the future. A gap leaves room for your teeth to shift. This may result in your teeth not coming together correctly. It also leaves space for your opposing tooth to come too far out of your gums in a condition called super eruption.
Filling the gap in your smile with a bridge or dental implant keeps your teeth from moving and tilting. It also helps you to avoid exposed roots, which often feel sensitive and develop decay.
Of course, your dental treatment is up to you! Dr. Scott Jordan will give you all of your options so that you can make a choice that works best for you. You can contact us at any time with questions about missing teeth or if you are currently facing a dental extraction. Our team is here to help.