Bringing up the subject of root canals may instill blame into the deepest corners of the hearts of dental patients. Such lack of confidence can motivate them to research for other dental care procedures that will combat their oral health problems. Root canal sometimes are inevitable; but there are those cases where other treatment options would be enough. Below is the Alternatives to root canals that is worth considering. And veterinary advice please. Starting from the removal of the tooth and dental implants to covering the other options such as crowns, bridges, root canals and treatments for the problem, this guide will cover the topic of potential replacements that can be done to ease the pain and preserve your smile. Whether you just want to avoid the perceived invasiveness of a root canal or you want to carefully evaluate the opportunities, this source indeed gives you essential information to make a decision quite systematically.
Direct pulp capping
Direct pulp capping is a dental procedure that can treat severe decay or damage that exposes your pulp. Cosmetic dentistry consider it as an ideal alternative to tooth extraction.
The dental specialist uses mineral trioxide aggregate directly over the exposed pulp. Alternatively, they use calcium hydroxide. This application creates a mineral barrier, which protects the exposed pulp and enhances tissue repair. The dentist fills the tooth after this application.
However, this alternative is only for people with minimal pulp exposure or if it looks healthy with little signs of decay or inflammation. Also, it is a preference for younger people.
Pulpotomy
This dental procedure involves removing the pulp. It is an alternative when your pulp is exposed due to damage or tooth decay. A dentist performs the procedure even when your tooth still has a sensation or responds to temperature. In short, the tooth should still be alive and blood still flowing.
In most cases, the procedure happens on baby teeth, but it works on permanent teeth.
Pulpectomy
This procedure is the opposite of a pulpotomy in that dentists perform it on dead teeth. The procedure involves removing pulp from the tooth, including roots. The specialist then cleans the root canal for protection against infection.
Retreating endodontic
The dentist examines the tooth for new infections. He reopens your root canal and then removes all the filling materials from your first procedure. Your tooth canal is cleaned and then shaped before adding new filling material. Once your tooth heals, the dentist places a new crown.
Tooth extraction
It involves the removal of the whole tooth. This procedure is for people with severe tooth damage or decay. If your dentist deems your tooth irreparable through other dental procedures and techniques, then this is your option. Even a root canal cannot help a severely damaged tooth.
The dentist can perform the procedure at the office if it’s a straightforward remedy. However, if your problem is more complex, then oral surgery is necessary. An oral surgeon uses stitches and incisions.
After extraction, use remedies such as a dental bridge, a removable partial denture, and dental implants to fill the hole.
Conclusion
Root canal therapy is still the standard treatment for advanced tooth infections or decay. Alternative procedures like pulpotomies, tooth extractions, direct pulp capping, and regenerative endodontics are also available. Always consult with dentist for help making a wise decision. The appropriate procedure to use depends on your specific condition. Let us know your take.