If your root canal has failed, Hampton Dental Associates, serving Milwaukee for four generations, offers solutions to restore smiles with precision and care. Dr. Richard Winter is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry (ABOI/ID)—the highest level of credentialing in implant dentistry. This distinction signifies his expertise in complex implant cases, bone grafting, and full-mouth restorations, offering patients exceptional care for long-term oral health and function.
Tooth Extraction: Removing the Problem Tooth
If a root canal fails, Dr. Winter may recommend extracting the tooth to prevent further infection or damage to surrounding teeth. Extraction is a straightforward procedure that eliminates the source of pain and infection, paving the way for a permanent dental implant.
Socket Graft and Dental Implant: Restoring Your Smile
After removing a tooth, the jawbone begins to shrink over time. A socket graft is often performed to prevent bone loss and prepare for an implant. This procedure includes placing bone graft material into the empty socket, preserving the bone structure, and creating a strong base for the dental implant.
Once the graft has healed (typically after 3-4 months), Dr. Winter can place a dental implant. The implant is a tiny titanium post surgically implanted in the jawbone, mimicking an artificial tooth root. Over time, the bone integrates with the implant, securing it in place.
Abutment: Connecting the Implant and Crown
After the implant heals completely, an abutment (or chimney) is attached to the top, connecting the implant and the final dental crown. The abutment is like a thimble that is screwed into the implant. This design gives the crown a foundation so it can be cemented or it can be a part of the crown and screwed into the implant at delivery.
Crown: Completing the Restoration
The last step is placing a custom-made dental crown on the abutment. This crown matches the shape, color, and function of a natural tooth, providing a durable and aesthetic solution. Often implant crowns can be a bit smaller than the teeth they are replacing so as to decrease forces that could cause harm to the implant. So while front teeth look and match your existing teeth, back teeth may be narrower to decrease unhealthy chewing forces. Also implants don’t hit at the same time as your teeth as they have no periodontal ligament. All teeth compress when you bite down but implants do not. So Dr. Winter will work hard to insure the implant crown doesn’t hit too hard.
Restore Your Oral Health After a Root Canal in Milwaukee, WI
If your root canal fails, don’t worry—effective solutions are available. A dental implant, combined with a socket graft, abutment, and crown, can fully restore your tooth’s function and appearance. If you’re experiencing ongoing pain after a root canal, call us at 414-464-9021 to schedule a consultation to explore options.
