TO PULL OR NOT TO PULL

[Mettie]

Furthest tooth back on lower left -- had a root canal two years ago. The tooth broke about 6 months ago. I have no pain, on rare occasion a bit of a gnawing feeling, but truly seldom. My dentist said I should have a crown put on it or have it pulled. He leaned heavily toward a crown which I cannot afford at the moment. I've had no trouble with it for 6 months. Do I really need to have it pulled now?

[lynn117]

i guess it just depends on your definition of need. i wish you luck!

[mammo]

I'm happy you found your answer.

[Mettie]

Thanks so much. I met with an oral surgeon yesterday who suggested the same. As there was no inflammation, he said I should wait until I either could afford a crown or NEEDED to get it out due to soreness. He said not to worry, that no bacteria was seeping into my system. So that's what chose to do.

[lynn117]

i disagree. the tooth is a chewer which means if you loose it the other teeth must take the extra pressure of chewing. the longer you wait to get a crown the more time the broken tooth can become damaged to the point repair is impossible. you are lucky it has survived for 6 months already. discuss a payment plan with your dentist.

[mammo]

If it's not bothering you, there is no reason at all to do anything right now.  Save your money.  Keep in mind that the dentist will make more money off of a crown than an extraction. Take care....