Decaying Tooth

[desabc]

I had a root canal on a tooth about 4 years ago, I could not afford a crown so the whole was filled in similar to a cavity...I ended up losing that filling and the tooth began decaying and was recommended that the tooth be extracted about a year and a half ago.  I cannot afford to have this done, how long can I live with a decaying tooth without it presenting problems?  I have been lucky so far, no pain, swelling, etc.  I brush and use Listerine daily.  Thank you.

[stateofconfusion]

The problem is that decay alone won't kill you.  HOWEVER decay is bacteria...and the more bacteria you have in your mouth, the higher the chances of getting sick.  I know money is tight from time to time, but you have to weigh you options. Not many people appreciate the importance of good oral hygiene.  The way our professors teach us is... An extraction can cost you a few bucks.  If you dont 'want to pay for the extraction, you can keep that rotten tooth and keep the decay until it sets up sepsis (infection in the body) and that simple extraction turns into a hospital bill PLUS several medications.  Moral being, find the few dollars to get it taken care of or you'll end up having to find LOTS of money to treat a systemic problem that could have been avoided.  May I suggest you find a local dental school. The procedures there are just a high a quality as a private practice, but we (the students at the dental schools/dental school) can't charge the price a private dentist charges.

good luck!