Tooth Pain After Root Canal: Should You Consider Dentures?

A small piece of the tooth broke off after root canal treatment?

I previously underwent root canal treatment due to deep cavities in my teeth.
A few days ago, while brushing my teeth, I noticed a small piece had broken off from the tooth that had the root canal.
After experiencing some pain two days later, I visited the dentist, who informed me that he would first fill the tooth, but I should consider getting a crown.
After returning home, I continued to experience persistent pain, occasionally accompanied by headaches, although most of the time it is only mild discomfort.
I would like to know if this pain is just temporary.
Additionally, if I avoid using that tooth and maintain good oral hygiene, is it absolutely necessary to get a crown? After all, crowns can be expensive, and I don't want to burden my family financially.

Furthermore, my teeth are very misaligned, and the dentist had previously suggested orthodontic treatment.
However, I didn't pursue it due to fear of pain and financial constraints.
After researching, I am now worried that my misaligned teeth could lead to other health issues.
I've heard that orthodontic treatment is easier when you are younger.
Should I consider getting braces?

S, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/08

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Ms.
S,
Hello! As mentioned, you are a very understanding girl! Basically, if a small piece of the tooth has broken off after root canal treatment, it can be filled.
However, since the tooth is more fragile after root canal treatment, it is prone to fracture.
Please avoid eating hard foods; otherwise, it would be better to consider a dental crown for protection! If the fracture is too deep, extraction may be necessary! (The teeth are very misaligned.) It would be best to undergo orthodontic treatment for better aesthetics, and importantly, it makes brushing easier, reducing the risk of cavities and periodontal disease! Please communicate more with your dentist!
Thank you! Wishing you peace!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2018/01/08

More Info

Tooth pain after a root canal can be a complex issue, and it's understandable to have concerns about the need for dentures or further dental interventions. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced some complications following your root canal treatment, including a piece of the tooth breaking off and ongoing pain. Let's break down your concerns and provide some insights.

Understanding Tooth Pain After Root Canal Treatment
1. Nature of Pain: The pain you are experiencing could be due to several factors. After a root canal, it is not uncommon for the tooth to feel sensitive or painful, especially if there was a significant amount of decay or if the tooth structure is compromised. The fact that you noticed a piece of the tooth breaking off suggests that the structural integrity of the tooth has been affected, which can lead to increased sensitivity and pain.

2. Temporary vs. Permanent Pain: It is difficult to determine whether your pain is temporary without a thorough examination. If the pain persists, it may indicate that there is an underlying issue, such as an infection or inflammation in the surrounding tissues. In some cases, the pain can be a sign that the root canal treatment was not completely successful, or that there is a fracture in the tooth that needs to be addressed.

3. Dental Restoration Options: Your dentist's recommendation to consider dentures may stem from the concern that the tooth may not be salvageable due to its compromised state. If the tooth is significantly damaged and cannot be restored with a filling or crown, extraction may be necessary, leading to the consideration of dentures or implants. However, if the tooth can be restored, a crown may be a more conservative option that preserves the tooth structure.

Should You Get Dentures?
- Avoiding Dentures: If you can maintain good oral hygiene and avoid using the affected tooth for chewing, it may be possible to delay or avoid dentures. However, this is not a long-term solution, as the tooth may continue to deteriorate without proper restoration. It is essential to follow your dentist's advice regarding the need for a crown or other restorative work to protect the tooth.

- Financial Considerations: Dental procedures can be costly, and it's understandable to be concerned about the financial burden. Discussing payment plans or alternative treatment options with your dentist may help alleviate some of this stress. Additionally, consider seeking a second opinion from another dentist or a dental specialist to explore all possible options.

Orthodontic Considerations
Regarding your concerns about orthodontics, it is true that misaligned teeth can lead to various dental and health issues over time, including difficulty in cleaning, increased risk of cavities, and jaw problems. Here are some points to consider:
1. Age and Treatment: While it is often easier to correct misaligned teeth at a younger age, adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment. Advances in orthodontics have made treatments more comfortable and less noticeable, which may alleviate some of your fears about pain and aesthetics.

2. Health Implications: If your misaligned teeth are causing you discomfort or affecting your oral health, it may be worth considering orthodontic treatment. A consultation with an orthodontist can provide you with a clearer picture of your options, including braces or clear aligners, and the associated costs.

3. Long-Term Benefits: Investing in orthodontic treatment can lead to better oral health, improved function, and enhanced aesthetics, which may ultimately save you money on future dental treatments.

Conclusion
In summary, the pain you are experiencing after your root canal treatment warrants further investigation. It is crucial to communicate openly with your dentist about your symptoms and concerns. If the tooth is salvageable, restorative options like crowns should be prioritized. If extraction becomes necessary, discuss the implications of dentures versus implants. Additionally, consider the long-term benefits of orthodontic treatment for your overall dental health. Seeking a second opinion can also provide you with more clarity and options. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential in managing your dental health effectively.

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