Yes—many infected teeth can be saved with root canal treatment. A root canal removes infected tissue from inside the tooth, disinfects the root canals, and seals the tooth to help prevent future infection. Whether a tooth can be saved depends on the extent of the damage and the overall health of the tooth. What Happens…
Generally, no. Once the inside of a tooth becomes infected, the infection usually does not go away on its own. Although the pain may lessen or even disappear temporarily, the infection can continue to damage the tooth and surrounding tissues if it isn’t treated. What Causes a Tooth Infection? A tooth infection usually develops when…
Dentists always prefer to save natural teeth whenever possible. However, there are times when a tooth is too damaged, too infected, or too unhealthy to be predictably restored. In these situations, removing the tooth may be the best way to protect your long-term oral health. Is Saving a Tooth Always the Best Option? Whenever possible,…
No. Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. While some wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, or damage to nearby teeth, others remain healthy and never require treatment. The decision depends on your individual situation and the long-term health of your mouth. What Are Wisdom Teeth? Wisdom teeth are the third and…
A cracked tooth doesn’t always cause immediate pain, making it tempting to put off treatment. However, even a small crack can worsen over time. Having a cracked tooth evaluated early may help preserve more of your natural tooth and reduce the need for more extensive treatment later. Can You Ignore a Cracked Tooth If It…
Yes—teeth grinding is one of the most common causes of cracked teeth. The repeated pressure created by grinding or clenching can gradually weaken teeth over time, sometimes without causing noticeable symptoms at first. Identifying and treating the underlying cause can help protect your teeth from further damage. What Is Teeth Grinding? Teeth grinding, also called…
If you chip a tooth over the weekend or after your dentist’s office has closed, you may wonder if it can safely wait a few days. The answer depends on the severity of the chip and your symptoms. While some small chips can wait for a scheduled appointment, others should be evaluated as soon as…
If your teeth seem to chip repeatedly, it’s natural to wonder why it keeps happening. While an occasional chipped tooth can result from an accident, repeated chips often indicate an underlying issue. Identifying the cause can help protect your teeth and reduce the risk of future damage. Is It Normal for Teeth to Keep Chipping?…
Tooth-colored bonding is a conservative, natural-looking way to repair chipped teeth, close small gaps, and improve the appearance of your smile. While bonding is durable, it isn’t permanent. Its lifespan depends on the location of the bonding, your bite, your daily habits, and how well you care for your teeth. How Long Does Tooth Bonding…
Chipping a front tooth can be alarming because it affects both your smile and your confidence. The good news is that many chipped front teeth can be repaired successfully. Knowing what to do immediately after the injury can help protect the tooth and improve your treatment options. Is a Chipped Front Tooth a Dental Emergency?…