The patient presented with a broken tooth and missing crown. A digital x-ray and CBCT (cone beam catscan) were taken. They revealed a fracture within the tooth, deep decay and an active infection. Dr. Patel diagnosed the tooth as unrestorable and recommended an extraction. Over the next several weeks, the patient was seen for follow up appointments to monitor healing of the extraction site. To replace the tooth, the patient chose to have a bridge placed, as the adjacent teeth had also presented with decay and required crowns. Using our Waterlase laser, Dr. Patel was able to access the decay that had reached below the gumline and remove all infectious tissue as well. He then designed and placed a same day CEREC bridge, so the patient was able to leave with a permanent replacement made in our office.
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