Difficult Teeth

Teeth that are cracked, split, or broken off at the gumline may require more advanced treatment than what your general dentist offers. Sometimes these problematic teeth can be treated and saved. Other times, they may require extraction. Either way, treating difficult teeth can be challenging.

Dr Zoud routinely treats difficult teeth at the Wisdom Specialist Centre. He has the skill and experience necessary to provide every patient with high-level, compassionate care.

What is considered a “difficult tooth”?

There are many instances in which teeth may be considered difficult. Here are just a few examples:

Cracked tooth

Sometimes a fracture extends beneath the gum line. In these cases, oral surgery may be required to access the portion of the tooth that needs repaired.

Split tooth

If a cracked tooth is left untreated, it may develop a split all the way down the root surface. If this occurs, the tooth will need to be removed.

Vertical root fracture

Sometimes a crack will develop at the very end of a root. If detected early, the tooth may be saved. However, in most cases, a vertical root fracture indicates that extraction is necessary.

Curved roots

If a tooth sustains trauma during the developmental stage, it could result in curved roots. Sometimes this issue is due to genetics. Either way, teeth with curved roots can be difficult to extract. The procedure usually requires the expertise of an oral surgeon.

Teeth affecting the nerves or sinuses

The molar teeth sit close to the maxillary sinuses and the mandibular nerves. However, if the teeth are too close, they can cause more serious issues, including chronic sinus infections. In these cases, removing the teeth is often recommended.

Hypercementosis

The roots of the teeth are covered in cementum – a calcified substance that protects the tooth and keeps it stable in the jaw. Sometimes, however, an excess of cementum can develop. In these cases, the tooth almost becomes fused to the jawbone and is extremely difficult to remove.

Removing Difficult Teeth

In many cases, difficult teeth need to be extracted. Choosing an experienced oral surgeon like Dr Zoud can reduce the risk of complications and preserve health.

Before removing a difficult tooth, our team will discuss your treatment options with you. While some patients undergo this procedure under local anaesthesia at one of our surgery locations, many choose to have general anaesthesia at a private hospital. This ensures maximum comfort and relaxation during treatment.

Once anaesthesia is administered, Dr Zoud makes a small incision in the gums. This allows direct access to the affected tooth and the surrounding area. In some cases, small amounts of bone tissue may be removed in order to access the problematic tooth. Using specialized dental instruments, Dr Zoud loosens the tooth in its socket. He may also divide the tooth into smaller segments for easier removal. Once the tooth is extracted, the area is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. If bone grafting is recommended, it will be performed at this time. Finally, the gums are repositioned, and the incisions are closed with sutures.

Recovery Timeline

Most patients can resume normal activities in about five to seven days. Though it takes about four to eight weeks for the gums to heal, the underlying bone will continue to heal for several months. If a bone graft was placed, three to six months of healing may be necessary before the next phase of treatment begins.
It’s important to follow the recommended post-operative guidelines provided by Dr Zoud. Doing so will reduce the risk of infection and give you the best chance for a successful recovery.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Do you have difficult teeth that are affecting your oral health? If so, schedule a consultation with Dr Zoud. Contact Wisdom Specialist Centre online or call our office at (02) 8021 2728 (Burwood) or (02) 9633 4552 (Westmead).

Burwood Rooms

Shop 1/8 Burwood Rd
Burwood NSW 2134
P: (02) 8021 2728
F: (02) 8021 2723
info@wisdomcentre.com.au

    Westmead Rooms

    Suite 40, Daher Centre, 163 – 171
    Hawkesbury Road Westmead,
    NSW 2145
    P: (02) 9633 4552
    F: (02) 9893 8801
    reception@westmeadomfs.com.au