Do I Really Need Root Canal Treatment for My Tooth Sensitivity? - Dentistry

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Root canal treatment


Hello Doctor: I recently visited the clinic for an examination, and the doctor mentioned that a few years ago, an X-ray showed an internal cavity in one of my upper molars.
The tooth appears normal and I have no discomfort.
After removing the cavity, the doctor said I would need a root canal treatment and placed a temporary filling.
During my second visit, I asked the doctor to fill it permanently.
About two months later, I experienced slight sensitivity in the gums between the teeth when drinking water, lasting about half a second.
Do I really need to undergo root canal treatment?

Liu Xiansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/11/18

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry


Hello: If a temporary filling has been placed, it indicates that root canal treatment has already begun.
It is recommended that you promptly return to the original clinic for the subsequent procedures.
Even if root canal treatment has not been performed, you should consider whether to replace the temporary filling with a permanent restoration!

Reply Date: 2019/11/18

More Info


When it comes to determining whether you need root canal treatment for your tooth sensitivity, it’s essential to understand the underlying causes of your symptoms and the condition of your tooth. Based on your description, it seems that you have a history of dental issues, specifically with a tooth that has had deep cavities and has undergone some treatment.
Root canal treatment is typically recommended when the pulp of the tooth (the innermost part containing nerves and blood vessels) becomes inflamed or infected, often due to deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. The symptoms you are experiencing, such as sensitivity in the gums near the tooth when drinking water, can be indicative of several things.
1. Sensitivity and Gum Reaction: The sensitivity you feel could be a response to the temporary filling or the surrounding gum tissue reacting to the dental work. It’s not uncommon for teeth to feel sensitive after a filling, especially if the cavity was deep. This sensitivity can sometimes resolve on its own as the tooth adjusts to the filling.

2. Potential for Infection: If the tooth has significant decay that reaches the pulp, there is a risk of infection. Even if you are not currently experiencing severe pain, the absence of pain does not necessarily mean that the pulp is healthy. Sometimes, the pulp can be damaged or infected without causing immediate pain, which is why regular monitoring is essential.

3. Assessment by a Dentist: Since your dentist has already suggested that root canal treatment may be necessary, it’s crucial to follow their advice. They likely have assessed the situation based on X-rays and clinical examination. If they believe that the decay is deep enough to warrant concern, it’s better to address it proactively rather than waiting for more severe symptoms to develop.

4. Temporary Filling: The temporary filling you have is meant to protect the tooth until a more permanent solution can be applied. If the sensitivity persists or worsens, it may indicate that the tooth is not healing properly or that there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

5. Further Evaluation: If you are uncertain about the need for root canal treatment, consider seeking a second opinion from another dentist. They can provide additional insights and may perform further diagnostic tests, such as additional X-rays or vitality tests, to assess the health of the tooth’s pulp.

In conclusion, while the sensitivity you are experiencing might not seem severe at the moment, it’s essential to take your dentist’s recommendations seriously, especially given the history of deep decay in that tooth. Root canal treatment can be a necessary step to prevent further complications, such as abscess formation or tooth loss. If you have concerns about the treatment or the sensitivity, discussing them with your dentist can help clarify the best course of action for your dental health.

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