Save the Root

To save or not to save?

This tooth is badly broken down, you can choose to extract and have an implant, option two is to keep it. Its kind of a borderline case because there is only minimal coronal tooth structure left. I supposed there is no right or wrong on whichever treatment option . It depends on how keen the patient is saving his tooth and what the dentist is comfortable doing, really. So, it also depends on who you seek the professional advice from.

I will choose to save if this is my own tooth. In order to restore this tooth, root canal treatment and crown is a must. To hold the crown, a post is placed into the palatal canal and an amalgam build-up is done.

The question is how long will this tooth last? I have been asked this question everyday! I honestly can't predict, I can offer data/statistics on success/failure of root canal treatment or longevity of root-treated teeth but then again, each tooth is different . What I can be sure is that this tooth is weakened but I can try my best to restore it. The rest is up to the patient and God.

Life is about making choices and I'm glad I'm a root saver!