With the advent of the dental microscope, dentists are now able to save heavily damaged and, in some cases, even terminal teeth. The Terminal Tooth Protocol, or TTP, is a novel method of salvaging previously non-restorable teeth. This technique, based on the innovative work of several European dentists, has changed the practice of restorative dentistry. Relying on advanced dental microscopy, TTP utilizes every micron of healthy tooth to restore teeth and potentially allow the patient continued function.
Teeth that could derive particular benefit from TTP include those that: have had a previous failed crown; have been badly fractured; are located in areas inaccessible by implant. Many patients will do anything possible to avoid having to remove a natural tooth. These patients, or those who are otherwise not candidates for dental implants, should strongly consider TTP as an option. Oftentimes, we bill TTP restorations as long-term temporaries, as they all have a guarded prognosis due to their heavily damaged nature.
Of course, even with TTP, many teeth cannot be saved and dental implants are still recommend. However, as use of this technology becomes more widespread, tooth salvage may become the exception rather than the rule.
