Mobility does not always indicate mortality.

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Dr Snehal

Patients frequently present with swelling and tooth mobility as a result of decay. In cases where tooth mobility is caused by a periapical abscess, root canal treatment can effectively restore the tooth's stability and integrity.

However, the situation becomes considerably more complex when there is severe tooth destruction and significant bone loss, particularly at the furcation area—the space between the roots of multirooted teeth. In such instances, the prognosis for treatment may diminish substantially, and extraction typically emerges as the most appropriate solution when radiographic evaluation reveals furcation bone loss.

In a particular case, I invested two months to attain a favorable outcome. Utilizing 2% chlorhexidine for intracanal irrigation, combined with regular applications of calcium hydroxide dressings, I was able to convert moist canals into a dry environment suitable for healing. After two months, I successfully obturated the tooth.

A follow-up X-ray taken one year post-treatment revealed impressive healing. While I acknowledge that no outcome is flawless and certain areas for enhancement remain, the results reaffirm my belief in the principle that “all's well that ends well.” This case serves as a reminder of the continuous improvement and dedication necessary in dental practice, which I am committed to pursuing in my work.