Managing Tooth Pain After Root Canal: Treatment Options and Concerns

Pain in a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment?

Hello, Director Zeng :)
1.
I have a tooth on the lower left that has had the nerve removed for several years.
Recently, it has been painful, and a corner has broken off while eating.
Can this be filled? Due to financial concerns, if I have it extracted, what impact will it have on my mouth?
2.
I have a cavity in my upper left wisdom tooth, and food gets stuck in it.
It hurts when I come into contact with cold water.
Should this be extracted?
3.
Sometimes, both the upper left and lower left teeth hurt, and the pain radiates to my left temple (causing headaches).
Sleeping seems to alleviate it a bit.
Is this related to my teeth?
Thank you for your help!

Xi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/07

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

1.
A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment may experience pain, most likely due to existing cracks or a complete fracture.
If the crack is minor, a crown may be considered for protection; however, if the crack extends to the root, extraction may be necessary.
Following extraction, the loss of the tooth can lead to decreased occlusal function, and ultimately, a prosthetic replacement will be required.
2.
The upper left wisdom tooth may be painful due to decay, causing food to become trapped.
If the wisdom tooth is already impacted or misaligned, extraction is recommended.
3.
Pain in the upper left and lower left teeth radiating to the temple may indicate periodontal or pulp inflammation.
It is advisable to consult a dentist for further evaluation and treatment.

Reply Date: 2016/04/07

More Info

Managing tooth pain after a root canal can be a complex issue, especially when multiple factors are at play. Let's address your concerns one by one, considering the medical knowledge surrounding dental treatments.

1. Tooth with Previous Root Canal Treatment: If you have a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment years ago and is now experiencing pain, it could be due to several reasons. The tooth may have developed a new infection, or there could be a fracture or structural compromise, especially since you mentioned it has broken a corner. In such cases, it is often possible to restore the tooth with a filling or a crown, depending on the extent of the damage. However, if the tooth is severely compromised, extraction may be necessary. Economically, extraction can be less costly upfront, but it can lead to further complications, such as shifting of adjacent teeth, bite issues, and the need for future restorative work like implants or bridges, which can be more expensive in the long run.

2. Wisdom Tooth with Cavities: Regarding your upper left wisdom tooth that has cavities and causes discomfort when eating or with temperature changes, extraction is often recommended if the tooth is significantly decayed or if it poses a risk of infection. Wisdom teeth are commonly removed due to their potential to cause crowding, infection, or pain. If the tooth is causing you discomfort and is not salvageable through filling or other restorative methods, extraction would be the best course of action.

3. Referred Pain and Headaches: The pain radiating from your upper left and lower left teeth to your temple could indeed be related to dental issues. Dental pain can often manifest as referred pain, where discomfort in the teeth can lead to headaches or pain in other areas, such as the jaw or temples. This is particularly true if there is inflammation or infection present. If the pain subsides after resting, it may indicate that the issue is indeed related to the dental structures. It would be wise to consult with a dentist to evaluate the condition of both teeth and determine if they require treatment.

In summary, managing tooth pain after a root canal or dealing with other dental issues requires careful consideration of the underlying causes. It is essential to consult with a dental professional who can provide a thorough examination, possibly including X-rays, to assess the condition of your teeth and recommend appropriate treatment options. While financial considerations are important, addressing dental issues promptly can prevent more severe complications and costs in the future. Always communicate openly with your dentist about your concerns and financial limitations; they may offer flexible payment plans or alternative treatment options that can help you manage your dental health effectively.

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