Answer to Our Most Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions not addressed in this section, or if you require further assistance, please call us at our Pearl City Office(808) 456-5005 or Honolulu Office: (808)732-2821 or email Request for More Information.

What are the most common causes of tooth loss and how can it be saved?

Often, people seek out emergency dental care when they are in pain. Some of the most common reasons for emergency visits to the dental office include:

 

• A broken or fractured tooth
• An abscess (infection) of the pulp (nerve) of the tooth
• A periodontal (gum) infection or inflammation
• Mobile (loose) teeth
• A badly decayed tooth
• A lost filling
• A knocked out (avulsed) tooth.

How can My Tooth Be Saved? 

 

First, the dentist must make an accurate diagnosis, to determine the exact nature of the problem. Usually, this involves taking an X-ray, making a clinical examination and taking a thorough medical and dental history. Depending upon the diagnosis, the dentist will usually make the following recommendations to save a compromised tooth.

 

Broken tooth -Full Crown:  In cases where a tooth breaks at the gum line, the dentist may also elect to do a reinforcing procedure to build up the tooth before placing a crown.

 

 

Abscessed tooth -Root canal therapy; in 95 percent of cases today, an abscessed tooth can be saved with endodontic therapy, especially when diagnosed and treated early.

 

 

Periodontal (gum) infection/involvement - Often, a periodontally involved tooth can be saved, if the diagnosis is made early. Depending upon the nature and severity of the case, your dentist can initiate periodontal therapy; you may need to return to the office for several treatments.

 

 

Badly decayed tooth/lost filling -A new filling. Often, a lost filling or heavily decayed tooth can be restored with a new filling. A crown may be necessary, if the amount of tooth structure is insufficient to support a filling. Your dentist can also place a sedative lining underneath the restoration to help sooth the nerve.

 

 

Knocked out tooth - Occasionally, a direct blow to the face will result in knocking out a tooth. If this occurs, you must get to a dentist quickly! If possible, soak the avulsed tooth in milk; or place it under the victim's tongue or between the victim's cheek and gum. (This will help preserve the vitality of the tooth.) Often, a knocked out tooth can be reimplanted, especially when professional help is obtained within 30 minutes after the accident.