The molars in the back of your mouth are large and often called upon to do the majority of the work grinding and chewing your food. When one has been damaged or decayed, it can significantly impair the overall function of your mouth. This is even more likely to be a problem if the affected molar experiences heightened sensitivity when eating and drinking.
Restoring the distressed tooth is important for preserving the function of your mouth and preventing a potentially dangerous infection from developing in the root or underlying socket.
If the compromised area is large, Dr. Kenneth Lewis might forgo using a filling and might advocate a total dental crown restoration. This method of treatment will eventually replace the entire tooth enamel layer with a durable, alternative shell.
Your dentist will start by examining the tooth and taking some X-rays to assess the extent of the problem. If they finds additional concerns, they will present you with further treatment options.
With any ancillary concerns addressed, your dentist will then remove any remaining tooth enamel. This leaves behind a post-shaped core of the tooth, which is called an abutment. This will later anchor the crown.
At the end of the appointment, we will form an impression of the abutment and any other related teeth. The abutment will then be covered by a temporary crown. The impression will be sent off to a dental lab technician who will create the final crown.
We will call you back in for a short second appointment when your crown is completed. Your dentist will remove the temporary crown and cement your new crown in place over the abutment.
If you live in the Fayetteville, North Carolina, area and you have a damaged or decayed molar in the back of your mouth, you should not delay in calling 910.488.0518 to have it treated at our dental office.