Part II-Understanding Why I need a root canal

[lkc40]

Hi Dr Tsang, thank you so much for responding to my question on Oct 13th.  I should have went a little further back regarding why I have a crown on one of my front tooth where they say I need a root canal.  Years ago I damaged it (sports) and had a gold script crown put on it.  Well, I had that gold script crown removed and that is how I got the crown.  I can't remember everything, but I think he had to file it down b4 putting the crown on.  

Well when I went to the dentist (& ortho for braces) last week regarding my tooth bothering me a little, they say it looks like ceramic instead of a crown, the ortho doctor and dentist ask me was it a crown or ceramic type.  Well, the other dentist who put the crown on said my tooth underneath is probably black and I said, it was black when you removed the gold script.  So, something wasn't done right at that time.  

And, he is the one who told me to be careful with getting a root canal as that is not always the answer.  The dentist who wants to do the root canal said my molar is good, I have good teeth.  I am not understanding why I need a root canal and it bothers me so until I am not getting it done.  I am going to see if I can go to another dentist and see what they say.  I am going to call the dentist Monday and ask if they will consider removing the crown first.  

I have never felt so sure of something, meaning, do not get root canal.  I don't know what to do.  So.....I'm just lost right now.  My tooth is not bothering me, although I have been taking antibiotics.  Which is what happen 5-6 years ago when it was hurting just a little, like a irritating or sensitive feeling and the doctor gave me some medicine and no more problems until now.  Its a sensitive pain really.  Gosh, reading this website about all the root canal issues scares me even more.  I know everyone is different and I shouldn't base my decision on reading all the issues, but, honestly, it makes me say, who have had a good experience.  

I've asked about 20 people at work and not to mention my family and not one good answer.  How can a dentist determine you need a root canal.  I don't know doctor.  Thanks for your advice.  I really appreciate it a lot.  I am so stressed out because I am big on taking care of myself.  That is my hobby!  Being healthy!  Not saying that a healthy person can't have some problems.  

Thanks again, I don't know what to do.  I'm confused and sad

K

[lynn117]

my dentist tested my tooth using liquid nitrogen. its so cold it makes even a normal tooth hurt. in normal teeth the pain goes away if the nerve is dying it hurts for whar feels like forever. infection is a sign of needing a root canal. sometimes the entire nerve can die without much pain. the remaining debris is subject to infection. i had one root canal thats had problems because the root fractured and another i had done 30 years ago and has never had a problem.