When a large area of tooth decay or a missing filling goes ignored for too long, the decay can spread to compromise the critical internal structures of a tooth. If the decay penetrates down to infect the pulp or root of a tooth, Dr. Bob Rust might need to perform a root canal to prevent further complications.
First, he will want to examine the tooth and take some X-rays. This will serve to assess the extent of the decay and detect other complications such as an abscess or infection forming deep within your gums.
Dr. Bob Rust will remove all decayed material and will form an abutment from a material called gutta-percha. Later this will serve as the anchor point for a crown. Next, he will make a detailed impression of the area, and a temporary crown will be cemented over the abutment to protect it.
The impression will be sent to a dental laboratory to serve as a guide for constructing your permanent crown. When it’s ready, our team will call you in for your second appointment to cement your new crown onto the abutment.
If you have a badly decayed tooth, please call Dr. Bob Rust’s office in Eugene, Oregon at 541-342-1072 to seek timely treatment. Our goal is to help restore your confident, healthy smile!