Surely this isn't a good sign

[wombat974]

I am terrified of the Dentist and whenever I need any work doing on my teeth I have to undergo a process known as conscious sedation. Back in January I had two teeth extracted (one of my front teeth) and I now where a partial denture which contains 3 teeth due to two extractions the previous year. I have been having more problems and a lump appeared in my gum above one of my incisor's. Xrays have revealed a root filling done years ago that hasn't worked with a drill bit clearing showing in my tooth and a mass of infection on the root. My Dentist tells me this tooth will now have to be extracted as it cannot be saved. Which means yet another tooth needs adding to the partial denture. All of my upper teeth are either drilled filled or capped and this will be the 5th tooth to be extracted in the last 2 years. Surely this can't be a good sign? Why doesn't my Dentist just extract the top set (I never have any problems with the lower set) The xrays also reveal a deterioration in my bones and that my gums are recceding badly. What would you suggest? I am on yet another strong dose of anti biotics which appear to be doing nothing. Feeling totally fed up by the whole thing

[nerve damage]

Find out what type of material was used to fill your root canal.  There are a small number of disrespected dentists that use a material called Sargenti Paste.  It contains formaldehyde and sometimes lead and mercury.  The formaldehyde fumes are intended to disinfect the root canal but it is also toxic to the body.  It can cause infection including infection of the bone that causes it to deteriorate.   If that was used, I'd have the tooth removed to get the **** out of my mouth.

[scottma]

Periapical lesion associated with a failed root canal can be rescued either by redo root canal or periapical surgery with retrograde filling. However, if your periodontal condition is poor and long-term prognosis is poor, you may choose to extract hopeless teeth.