Today we will talk about a very important topic and often unknown to many: pivot teeth. What are they? How do they work? Why are they necessary? If you have ever asked yourself these questions, keep reading because we will explain everything you need to know.
In simple terms, a pivot tooth is a tooth that is used as a base or support for a dental prosthesis. It is called a «pivot» because it is the central point around which the denture rotates. This type of tooth is commonly used in restorative dental treatment, when the original tooth is no longer present or strong enough to hold a denture.
Dental restoration is a fundamental part of dentistry, since it helps to recover the functionality and aesthetics of damaged or lost teeth. Pivot teeth are commonly used in fixed dental prosthetics, such as crowns and bridges, and also in removable prosthetics, such as partial and full dentures.
Pivot teeth are carefully chosen based on the location and strength of the tooth root. Back teeth, such as molars, are often the best candidates to be used as pivot teeth due to their location in the jaw and their ability to support heavy loads. However, the front teeth can also be used as pivot teeth if they have a strong enough root.
pivot tooth
A pivot tooth is a dental prosthesis designed jointly by the dental surgeon and dental technician. It replaces a tooth whose root is in good condition to accommodate a stem, usually made of metal, which supports an upper part called crown.
This pivot tooth can be done in two ways:
– In a single block stuck in the root gaps.
– In two parts: the stem, then the ceramic crown. This technique is more recommended since the system better absorbs the mechanical stresses of chewing.
Why a pivot tooth?
A pivot tooth is possible when the natural tooth is so damaged that its visible part, the crown, can no longer be constructed with a simple metal inlay or filling. Therefore, it is necessary to add an anchor to support the crown. The main indications for a pivot tooth, and a crown in general, are1:
A trauma or fracture too great for any other reconstitution Advanced caries Extensive wear of the teeth Severe dyschromia Malpositioning of the teeth.
What is a crown?
Crowns are fixed prostheses that will cover the upper part of the tooth to restore its original morphology. They can be made on the remaining dental tissue (thanks to a preparation) or they can be fixed on a metal or ceramic «prosthetic stump»: the pivot, also called a post. In the latter case, the crown is not glued, but sealed to a post that slides into the root of the tooth.
There are several types of crowns depending on the indication, but also on the aesthetic and economic gradient offered to the person who requires a crown.
Plaster crowns (CC). Cast from a cast alloy, they are certainly the least aesthetically pleasing and least expensive.
mixed crowns.
These crowns combine 2 materials: an alloy and a ceramic. In labial inlay crowns (VICs), the labial side is covered with a ceramic. In ceramic-metallic crowns, the ceramic completely covers the surface of the tooth. They are more aesthetic and obviously more expensive.
Ceramic-ceramic crowns. As the name suggests, these crowns are entirely made of ceramic, which is also very strong. They are the most aesthetic and the most expensive.
However, aesthetics is not the only criterion: the crown must meet the needs of the oral cavity.
Metal reconstructions are still widely used today despite their unattractive side: the mechanical properties and the simplicity of realization in the laboratory speak for themselves!
In the case of the pivot tooth, this crown is necessarily associated with a false prosthetic stump fixed, screwed or placed in the root.
How does it work?
When a tooth is severely damaged, after major decay or severe shock, devitalization is often done to stop the progression of the infection and remove any sensitivity from the tooth.
This essentially involves removing the nerves and blood vessels from the infected tooth and filling in the canals.
If the tooth is only partially damaged, it is filed to a regular shape, an impression is taken, and a metal or metal-ceramic prosthesis is cast.
But if the tooth is too structurally damaged, it is necessary to anchor one or two pegs in the root to stabilize the future crown. This is called an «embedded» crown, which is sealed with cement.
Two sessions are needed to perform the operation.
10 benefits of using a pivot tooth
If you are looking for a solution to replace your missing or damaged teeth, pivot teeth may be a great option for you. In addition to improving your smile and oral health, there are a host of other benefits to be gained from wearing a pivot tooth. Here are 10 benefits to consider:
Improves chewing: Pivot teeth can help you regain the ability to chew food properly. This will not only improve your digestion, but will also allow you to enjoy a varied and healthy diet.Prevents dental alignment problems: By replacing a missing tooth with a pivot tooth, you can prevent your remaining teeth from shifting and shifting, which can cause long-term dental alignment problems.Recover dental aesthetics: By replacing a missing tooth with a pivot tooth, the appearance of your smile can be improved and confidence restored in your appearance.Greater Durability: pivot teeth are designed to carry heavy loads and resist wear. This makes them more durable and resistant than other types of dentures.Improves oral health: Pivot teeth help preserve the health of oral tissues and gums, which can prevent problems like tooth decay and periodontal disease.Comfort: Pivot teeth are designed to perfectly fit the shape of your mouth and be comfortable to wear on a daily basis.Does not require surgery: Unlike other denture options, such as dental implants, pivot teeth do not require invasive surgery for placement.Ease of maintenance: Pivot teeth can be easily cleaned and maintained with good daily dental hygiene and regular dental visits.Affordability: Pivot teeth are an affordable denture option for many people, making them a popular choice for those looking for an affordable tooth replacement solution.Increases the quality of life: By restoring dental function and aesthetics, pivot teeth can significantly improve your quality of life and overall well-being.
Pivot teeth offer a wide variety of benefits that can significantly improve your oral health and overall quality of life.
If you’re considering dentures, be sure to talk to your trusted dentist to learn more about how pivot teeth can help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile.
The risks of the pivot tooth
Avoid when possible. The decision to crown the tooth with a root anchor should be made after careful consideration. Anchorage is not without risk and entails a loss of substance that weakens the tooth.
Contrary to popular belief, it is not the devitalization of the tooth that makes it more fragile, but the loss of substance induced by caries or surgical mutilation.
Therefore, whenever possible, the professional should resort to rebuilding the devitalized tooth with a less mutilating crown and try to achieve maximum tissue savings.
Pivot tooth release.
The loss of tissue associated with the anchorage of the pins can lead to a lower resistance to occlusion stresses, increasing the risk of fracture.
When this happens, the tooth will fall out. while waiting the appointment with the dentist (a must!), it is advisable to gently replace it after taking care to clean the root (a mouthwash and dental spray are fine) and the pivot bolt.
However, it will have to be removed during meals to prevent it from being swallowed: it is unlikely to withstand the stress of chewing.
If its root has remained intact, a new pivot will be assigned to it.
However, if your root is infected or fractured, you will need to consider a dental implant or bridge.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pivot teeth are a highly beneficial denture option for those looking to restore their smile and improve their oral health. From improving chewing ability and preventing dental alignment problems, to restoring dental aesthetics and increasing overall quality of life, pivot teeth offer a wide range of benefits.
Additionally, their durability, comfort, and ease of maintenance make them a popular and affordable option for many people.
If you’re looking for a tooth replacement solution, talk to your trusted dentist to learn more about how pivot teeth can help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that will last a lifetime.
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