If you have ever noticed a tooth turning dark or suddenly becoming sensitive it could be more than just a cavity; it might be a sign that your tooth is dying. When a tooth dies, it not only darkens your smile but also quietly damages your oral health if you do not act quickly. A tooth filling is usually used to treat this type of tooth damage.
When a tooth decays, a dentist removes the abscess and cleans the cavity. Then he fills it with some material like amalgam to restore the proper shape and structure of the tooth. It helps the tooth to regain its function. However, tooth decay is a condition in which the blood supply and the nerve supply of the tooth become non-functional. The tooth may be present physically but internally it is no longer alive. Then it requires more complex treatments, such as dead tooth filling. It not only restores the previous function but also strengthens it internally, making it free from infection.
If you are dealing with a dead tooth Broadway Family Dentist offers comforting treatments to restore your tooth with the right filling.
What is Dead Tooth Filling?
A dead tooth is a nonfunctional tooth. The inner soft tissue, containing blood and nerve vessels, is damaged, but the outer covering of that tooth remains the same. It is due to some kind of infection, trauma or decay.
Changes in the colour of tooth appearance, either black, brown or gray, throbbing pain in gums, increased sensitivity, bad smell and pus with swelling are some common signs and symptoms of a dead tooth.
Types of Fillings used for a Dead Tooth
In general dentistry, there are different treatment options for a dead tooth. These are given as,
Root Canal: A process in which the internally damaged area of a tooth is removed and cleaned.
Composite Fillings: They are used after root canal cleaning.
Dental Crowns: These are used to cover the weakened tooth.
Ceramic or porcelain inlays and outlays: These are material-specific, depending on the preference of a patient. Inlays are used to cover a tooth and outlays are used to cover two or more damaged teeth.
A dead tooth is treated by first removing all the abscess from the affected tooth, then cleaning it properly and lastly, the filling is done.
Causes of Tooth Decay
Many reasons can cause tooth decay. A deep infection in the tooth can damage it completely, causing pain and inflammation. Due to infection at the site the blood vessels and nerves are damaged.
A dead tooth can also be caused by poor oral care. When you do not brush your teeth properly it increases the chances of plaque accumulation in teeth and gums. The oral environment is ruined. It contributes to tooth decay. In some cases, we have also seen physical injuries or trauma as a cause of tooth decay.
How long does Filling take for a Dead Tooth?
A dead tooth takes about half an hour to treat. In some cases, depending on the tooth condition it may take up to one and a half hours to be treated. The process simply includes taking an X-ray examination of the affected tooth. Then the dentist removes the abscess and cleans it completely. Filling is done and at the end a dental cover or cap is applied.
Usually, it is done in a single appointment but the final crown can take one more visit if your dentist recommends it. Moreover the number of root canals the patient had, the severity of infection, the professionalism of the dentist and the type of restoration that is going to take place can affect the duration of tooth filling.
Temporary Tooth Filling: When are they used?
Temporary tooth fillings are done for immediate and short term protection. It can be done at an early stage of root canal or to reduce the pain and sensitivity of the tooth. These temporary tooth fillings are done with zinc oxide or resin-based temporary materials. Temporary tooth filling offers quick replacement and temporary protection. It is not long lasting and can dislodge easily. So the temporary tooth fillings should be replaced by implants and veneers. A permanent filling can also be done.
Permanent Treatment for a Dead Tooth
The long term treatment options for a dead tooth consist of the following methods:
Root Canal
It is a primary treatment for a dead tooth. The process involves, firstly numbing the affected tooth followed by removing the abscess and cleaning the affected tooth. Then the canal is filled with a rubber-like material. After filling, the tooth is sealed to prevent the risk of reinfection.
Laser dentistry can be quite helpful in root canal therapy.
Dead Tooth Filling
Filling options after the root canal of a tooth are dependent on the structure of the tooth left behind. Based on the remaining structure, materials like composite resin, dental crown or porcelain inlays and outlays are used. Crowns are also preferred because the tooth filling becomes brittle with the passage of time.
How to Care for your Dead Tooth after Treatment
You can take care of your teeth by following some post treatment tips and future prevention. These are given as,
Post Treatment Care Tips
You should avoid biting and chewing on the treated side until it has completely healed. Try to eat soft foods for a day or two. Take your medications and attend the follow up.
Future Preventions
Brush your teeth regularly and floss daily. Avoid sugary foods and use a mouthguard while playing any sport.
Conclusion
Behind every dark spot on teeth, your mouth is telling a story. Knowing it as an early sign can save you from future problems. A dead tooth may look harmless to you, but what is happening inside it can be a painful problem that you cannot ignore. It ends your freedom to have a bright smile. But no need to worry, with the proper treatment, it still can be saved before things get worse.
FAQs
How can I tell if my tooth has died?
Note the signs of a dead tooth, such as pain, swelling, and discoloration.
Why does a dead tooth require special fillings?
It requires special fillings because the tooth is damaged internally. The outer structure remains unaffected. To prevent reinfection after treatment, it requires special filling and covering.
What is the cost of a dental filling for a dead tooth?
It costs between 1000$ and 3000$ for a dead tooth filling.