A tooth restoration is a dental procedure that restores a tooth that has been significantly damaged, broken, or weakened by tooth decay, trauma, or previous treatment. When the natural crown of the tooth can no longer be reliably restored with an ordinary filling, an extension is applied to restore the tooth’s function, firmness and aesthetic appearance.
This procedure is very often used as a preparation for making a dental crown, but in certain cases, the extension itself can be the final solution.
When is a tooth restoration necessary?
Tooth augmentation is recommended in situations where most of the tooth structure has been lost, but the root of the tooth is still stable and healthy. The most common reasons are deep caries, tooth breakage, cracking of the filling, as well as teeth that have been previously treated and from which a nerve has been removed.
If such a tooth is not strengthened, there is a high risk of further fracture, which can lead to tooth extraction and the need for more complex prosthetic solutions.
What does the tooth augmentation procedure look like?
Before the upgrade, the dentist assesses the condition of the teeth and roots. If the tooth has a nerve, it is usually removed beforehand, and the canal is properly cleaned and filled. This is followed by the placement of the abutment, which serves as an internal reinforcement of the tooth.
Depending on the type of upgrade, the procedure may take one or two visits. Most modern techniques are painless and are performed under local anesthesia, so the intervention is comfortable for the patient.
Types of tooth extensions
Cast Tooth Extension
The cast abutment is made individually in the dental laboratory. After taking an impression of the root canal, the technician makes a metal stake that fits precisely into the tooth. This type of restoration is extremely strong and long-lasting, but requires two visits to the dentist.
It is most often used for lateral teeth that suffer a greater load when chewing.
Tooth abutment with a metal stake
The metal shovels are factory-made and are placed directly into the root canal of the tooth. The advantage of this method is speed, as the upgrade can be completed in one visit. After cementing the stakes, the tooth is upgraded with a composite material.
This option is reliable, but with the front teeth it may have aesthetic limitations due to possible discoloration.
Fiberglass Tooth Abutment
Fiberglass is a more modern and aesthetically pleasing solution. Fiberglass screws are white or transparent in color, do not affect the shade of the teeth and are ideal for the front teeth.
In addition to aesthetics, the advantage of fiberglass is its elasticity, which is similar to a natural tooth, which reduces the risk of root cracking. In most cases, the procedure is completed in one visit.
Composite tooth restoration
Composite superstructure is used when the damage is minor and when additional reinforcement with a stake is not required. The material used is the same as for white fillings and is shaped directly on the tooth.
This method is quick and more affordable, but it is not recommended for major damage because it does not have the same mechanical resistance as stake upgrades.
Tooth and dental crown augmentation
In many cases, a tooth extension is just a preparatory step for the placement of a dental crown. The crown is cemented over the upgraded tooth and completely takes over the function of a natural crown.
This combination provides a long-lasting result, a natural appearance and full functionality of the teeth, even when the original structure was almost completely destroyed.
Does tooth extension hurt?
Tooth augmentation is a painless procedure. Since it is most often done on teeth without a nerve, the pain is not felt, and if necessary, local anesthesia is used. After the intervention, a slight feeling of discomfort or pressure is possible, which quickly passes.
How long does a tooth extension take?
The durability of the abutment depends on the type of material, the position of the teeth and the habits of the patient. With proper oral hygiene and regular check-ups, an upgraded tooth can last for many years, especially if it is additionally protected by a crown.
Avoiding excessive strain, such as biting hard objects or gnashing your teeth, significantly extends the life of the upgrade.
The Cost of a Tooth Extension
The cost of a tooth extension varies depending on the type of extension, the material, and the dental office. Composite superstructures are usually the most affordable, while fiberglass and cast superstructures are slightly more expensive due to the material and complexity of the process.
The exact price is always determined after the examination and treatment plan, because each tooth requires an individual approach. To find out the price, we advise you to contact us today and get in touch with our dentist to get the best possible solution.
Tooth abutment or implant
Whenever it is possible to preserve the natural root of the tooth, the abutment has an advantage over an implant. It preserves the natural tooth, requires a shorter treatment time and is much more affordable.
Implants are recommended only when the tooth cannot be saved or when the root is irreversibly damaged.
Tooth augmentation is a reliable and effective solution for preserving natural teeth that have been significantly damaged. Thanks to modern materials and techniques, today it is possible to achieve excellent functional and aesthetic results, often in just one visit.
Timely response and consultation with a dentist are key to choosing the best type of restoration and long-term dental health.