Temp Crown/Pain Question

I had an old silver filling in a back molar (#30), and part of my tooth chipped off while eating lunch. Visited my dentist on Saturday who did an x-ray, and noted that I had the "perfect chip" as it was close, but didn't appear to penetrate or open the nerve area per x-ray. Believed a root canal was not needed. We proceeded with a crown, and I currently have a temporary on. Before leaving the office, my hygientist (sp) noted that they may have aggravated the tooth a little bit, and to phone it the pain became extreme and throbbing.

I've had pain off-n-on the last couple days--nothing terrible just an annoying pain. I can usually take 1 ibuprofen and it goes away, no worries...I forget about it (usually end up taking 2-3 per day). Hot/cold beverages don't seem to bother it, and I've tested the area by chewing soft foods and don't feel much either. I can also brush with no sensitivity, too.

If the dentist did just aggravate it during the prep work, how long will this persist? Or, does it seem that I may need that root canal after all??

I have an appt with him in a couple weeks as I want to make sure a root canal is not needed before the permanent crown goes on.

Thanks!

Also, can certain dental work trigger earaches?

[Jerome Tsang, DDS]

It should gradually get better over time.  It may take up to 6 weeks for the sensitivity or feeling to go away but as long as its improving, it sounds like you can avoid the root canal at this point although you may still need one in the future.

[megan1031]

To add...the ear doesn't necessarily hurt. More like "water stuck" type of feeling. But, I have the onset of a runny nose so that could be it too. However, it's only on my right side. Same side as dental work was done.