What is the normal procedure to repair a missing upper molar that broke off years after a root canal due to never being crowned. would the remainder of the root have to be removed as well, would an implant be best?

When : When you break a molar down to the gum-line, it can be restored with a post&core and a crown, but this is not always the best option. If it is decayed, there may not be enough healthy tooth to restore it. How long has the molar been broken? The longer it has been that way, the more likely the tooth is unrestorable due to decay. Sometimes it is best to remove the tooth and place an implant.The biggest advantage for an implant is that it has a chance to last forever. Today, there is an implant available that can be placed the same time as the extraction, as long as there is no infection present. These are manufactured by southern implants. They are relatively new to dentistry. I have personally had 6 placed in my patients, including my wife, with great results. Ask you dentist about them.

As : As long as the remaining root structure is healthy and above the crest of the bone surrounding the tooth the answer is easy. You are better off saving your own tooth with a post and a crown which is what should have been done all those years ago. The only problem now is the increase in the cost of treatment. I would recommend a cast gold post and core and a crown of what ever color you like. My personal preference at the back of the mouth is still a gold crown. The gum has to be healthy and the root not cracked. A good x-ray is needed to evaluate the root structure. Dr. Neil mcleod dds dentistry that lasts - quality that counts.

Full crown: The remainder of the tooth is cut down to a specific geometric shape and a crown is placed. This protects the rest of the tooth and lets the dentist provide the best and most esthetic restoration.