Is there a simple way to fix a cavity and a broken tooth?

[red324]

The dentist I went to just wanted to do a root canal and crown at the tune of $3500.00 with no interest in doing anything else, so it's been about 1.5 months now and I got to thinking, why can't they just fill in the cavity and then seal off the part of the tooth that broke off? The tooth broke in half, but is still above the gumline and has no pain. I don't necessarily care that it's broken in half, but I do want the cavity fixed and the rest of the tooth to be sealed off since i'm sure their isn't any enamel protecting it on the area that broke. I don't know much about teeth, so I'm just looking for possbile options.

[Oliverlogan263]

I wouldn't recommend trying to fix a broken tooth yourself, dude. Dentistry can be tricky. Here are a few thoughts:

- Filling a cavity is one thing, but fixing a broken tooth involves more risk if not done right. Nerve damage/infection could happen.

- Without properly cleaning/disinfecting the exposed dentin from the break, any sealant or filling wouldn't last long before decay sets in underneath.

- A root canal may still be needed down the line if the break exposes the inner pulp. Could end up more expensive.

- It's risky blocking access to the broken area without proper examination/x-rays by a professional first.

- DIY fixes may look good temporarily but compromise the tooth's structure long-term.

If $3500 is really not doable, maybe ask around for another dentist for a second opinion? Sometimes just knowing all the options helps. Or consider a dental school - work is done by students but under supervision and cheaper. Your health isn't worth risking to save a few bucks, ya know?

[red324]

I'm not fixing it myself lol, just saying thir has to more options than just a cap and root canal.

[Oliverlogan263]

You're right dude, I shouldn't have assumed you were gonna try fixing it alone. That'd be pretty risky. Let me think if there could be other options the dentist may have missed...

One possibility is getting a second opinion from another dentist. Sometimes they'll have different takes and might be able to do a partial treatment that's less invasive.

Another option is asking the original dentist about doing the root canal in stages - maybe just starting with cleaning it out and sealing the root, then waiting to crown later if needed. Could save some cash.

You could also look into dental schools, as they may offer cheaper treatments since it's students doing the work under supervision. Might take longer but could save a lot.

As a last resort, maybe try finding a local dentist in another town/city that does payment plans? Competition could mean they cut better deals.

It's good you're looking into alternatives, man. Dental work is no joke expensive. With some shopping around, hopefully you can find someone willing to explore a fix that doesn't break the bank. Keep me posted if you find a better solution, dude!

[strateguy632]

those aren't simple. a broken tooth would need skill unless you ignore it. but a cavity that already hurts can't ignore.

either ask to pull it for cheaper or the usual drill n cap.

if need root canal too late.

ask if extracting is cheaper.

[red324]

It doesn't hurt yet.

[red324]

I guess the cavity was inside the tooth because I never noticed it before. First it broke in half, then like 3 days later there was a slightly jagged spot that broke off where the cavity was. It was almost covering it up.

[CupcakeTheDestroyer]

Try a different dentist and tell them you only want the cavity filled. If they insist, try someone else. If it’s genuinely not a danger to your health, you will find a dentist who will perform the services you want.

[red324]

The tooth is also busted off, so that expised area needs a protective coating if they have such a thing.

[CupcakeTheDestroyer]

There isn’t such a thing

[red324]

I think there is. They can still build up off of what's there now, reshape it etc.

[CupcakeTheDestroyer]

Dude, it’s bone, not clay. Your teeth are not malleable. What you’re describing is indeed a crown replacement