A large cavity that has gone ignored or a missing filling that has not been repaired for some time can often allow decay to penetrate deep into the tooth. If the decay compromises the pulp or root of a tooth [practice_name]’s dentist will likely need to perform a root canal to remove the decayed material, and restore sufficient structure to later mount a crown.
Your dentist at [practice_name] will start by examining the tooth and taking some X-rays. This will serve to assess the extent of the decay and make sure there aren’t looming complications such as an abscess of infection in your gums.
Then [practice_name]’s dentist will then remove all decayed material and extract any infected tissues. An abutment is then formed from a material called gutta-percha. Later this will serve as the anchor point for a crown. Then they will form an 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 the lab has completed your permanent crown, [practice_name]’s office will call you in for your second appointment to cement it onto the abutment.
If you have a badly decayed tooth, you should call [practice_name]’s office in [city], [state] at [phone] to seek timely treatment and restoration.