Hi,
Six months ago I had pain in a lower molar. My dentist removed the old filling and discovered a crack across the base of the tooth and a new filling was put in (used a white material). I had no problem chewing on the tooth and no sensitivity to heat or cold. After 4 1/2 months a crown was installed. Now I cannot chew on the tooth without developing pain and very sore gums. I have been out of town but my dentist put me on antibiotics for a possible abcess and has lined me up for a root canal with a specialist.
My question concerns the need for a root canal since I do not want to have one done if not absolutely necessary. If the tooth felt ok before the crown, why would it not feel ok with the crown? Could it be the crown installation itself? How long does pain from an abcess usually last? My pain stopped 3-4 hours after I stopped chewing on the tooth although I took all of the antibiotic over a 7 day period. I tend to believe it was not an abcess but something being irritated instead. I have not used the tooth in a week.
I have noticed that it was difficult to floss on one side of the tooth before the crown due to narrow space but now there is more space there.
Your advise appreciated.