Dental avulsion is a form of oral trauma that can result from an unprotected blow to the face. While a tooth that was knocked out whole might be viable for implantation back in the socket, it is rare. Most times the dental trauma is too severe to save the original tooth. Sometimes a root canal can restore enough structure to anchor an eventual dental crown.
In an extreme case where the underlying structure of the gums was also traumatized, Dr. Robert P. Sherman might recommend a total extraction of the root. After your gums have fully healed, your dentist can start the process of replacing the tooth with a dental bridge.
This is essentially two crowns fused together with a third representative tooth in the middle. It will eventually be mounted onto a pair of abutments that are formed by the two closest neighboring teeth.
This generally requires two separate appointments. During the first session, your dentist will examine the two neighboring teeth to make sure they are completely healthy. Your dentist will then use a drill to remove most of the enamel layer of each tooth. This creates a pair of abutments that will later anchor your bridge.
Dr. Robert P. Sherman will then create an impression of the area, which will be sent to our dental lab. This will serve as a guide for the technicians when custom making your final bridge. Once this is done, hard, plastic, temporary crowns are secured over each abutment to protect them.
We will call you to schedule a second appointment when the dental lab technician has completed your new bridge. Your dentist will then cement it in place with a strong dental adhesive.
If you live in the Leawood, Kansas, area and you have a tooth in distress, you should not delay in calling 913-685-2171 to have it examined and treated at Robert P. Sherman.