Root canal treatments rescue your tooth when it is about to go into an extraction. However, the criterion is that you should get it done on time. A tooth that is overly decayed, fractured, or is moving may not be saved through a root canal and may need more serious interventions.
A mobile tooth is a condition where patients are often concerned whether a root canal treatment can fix it or if they might need an extraction now. This blog helps you identify the grades of mobility and will also help you know if root canal therapy works on a mobile tooth.
Is It Possible To Fix A Loose Tooth With A Root Canal?
A loose tooth may indicate damage to the internal pulp, gum tissue, or bone. In such cases, a root canal proves to be beneficial in fixing a mobile tooth. Dentists claim that the capacity of the root canal to cure a loose tooth is based on the severity of the underlying cause, as well as the state of the surrounding tissues.
Grades For Mobility And The Possibility Of A Root Canal
Here is how a root canal helps in treating a loose tooth, depending on the grade of mobility:
Grade I (Medium Mobility)
If your tooth is only moving a little possibly up to 1 mm, the tooth is still firmly attached by the gingiva and bone. A root canal done at this stage can stop more damage, eliminate infection, and allow the tooth to recover. After the root canal, the tooth’s pulp stabilizes, especially when the dentist pairs it with correct restoration and maintenance.
Grade II (Intermediate Mobility):
In a grade II mobility, the tooth is still stable but moves more than in a grade I mobility. A root canal can be helpful if pulp is involved in causing the infection that has led to loosening. However, a root canal may not be very promising for full recovery and stability. Sometimes, further therapies, including periodontal treatment or splinting, may be needed. A complete evaluation with the dentist can make the choices clear.
Grade III (Major Mobility Issues):
If the tooth moves a lot, it is possibly due to severe bone loss or damage to the nearby tissues. Only relying on a root canal won’t fix the movement in these cases. Ideally, procedures like splinting, grafting, or extraction with replacement are needed.
Methods for Fixing Loose Teeth
Below are the ways recommended for stabilization:
- Doing a root canal in grade I & II mobility, then sealing and fixing the tooth’s structure with a crown.
- Splinting is a dental procedure that offers major support for a loose tooth, which is done by attaching the mobile tooth to the adjacent teeth.
- Extraction and replacement with an implant or bridge may be advised.
Summing Up
While a tooth with grade III mobility is beyond repair through a root canal treatment, extractions can be helpful. The removal of a decayed tooth can pave the way for a new tooth replacement with more strength and improved aesthetics.
If you are making up your mind about a root canal or extraction, visit Bay Colony Dental & Orthodontics. We offer highly effective root canal therapies and pain-free extractions. Not just that, but you can also treat yourself with cosmetic dental treatments driven by the top dentists. Call us at (281) 337-9000 to schedule your appointment today.