There are some times when different aspects of oral health come together, forcing us to perform two seemingly different procedures together. Sometimes that means a simultaneous situation. In other instances, we need to achieve a certain goal before we can proceed with the next step. This can be because of stability concerns or a bacterial infection, or many other issues that could pose a risk to your mouth.
Today, your Newport Beach, CA dentist speaks to you about some instances that we may need to do multiple things in order to correct one situation. And how these may drastically benefit your smile!
Structure Vs. Infection
One reason why multiple approaches may be necessary is due to the different concerns that need to be addressed. You can imagine our oral health somewhat like a house. If you have both a termite infestation and an electrical short, you will need two radically different solutions, all in order to maintain that house.
Our mouths operate in a somewhat similar manner, and we have very differing kinds of biological tissue that we are trying to keep healthy. Our two biggest concerns are that of bacterial infection, and structural failure of the teeth.
Now, these two things are often connected, as bacteria form the greatest risk of tooth decay to you. When you neglect your routine oral health, colonies are allowed to form in the recesses of the mouth, and in between the teeth. The organisms create highly acidic waste, which destroys the hard enamel that protects our teeth.
This can create problems in a variety of ways, including eating deep enough that the root and pulp become exposed to the outside elements. They can then become infected, causing immense pain and risking the tooth. This can even grow deeper, into the bone of the jaw.
A Common Instance
In order to protect your health in times like these, your dentist will need to perform a pulpectomy and a root canal, to stop the spread and eliminate the infection. First, they will have to remove the damaged area, while giving themselves enough of a hole to perform the procedure.
Then they will remove the fleshy interior, effectively separating the tooth from the rest of the circulatory system. A gummy material called gutta-percha is inserted into the connections to your jaw, blocking the connection even further. This allows the tooth to remain in place and stay functional and strong, and to save bone matter from reabsorbtion.
Due to the amount of damage you have likely already received, as well as the trauma for the pulpectomy, means that there might not be enough healthy material to continue to function without some external support. For this, we rely upon crowns, as a secure cap which we can use on a daily basis. All while looking great!
I Want To Know More!
If you have any questions, please give Dr. Hofkes at Balboa Dental Surgery a call at (949)630-0143. Or stop by our office here in Newport Beach, CA!
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