Should You Fill the Hole After Root Canal Treatment?

Should a cavity be filled after root canal treatment?

On June 30th, I experienced severe pain in my upper left tooth while eating.
After brushing my teeth, I discovered a small cavity and went to see a dentist.
The dentist informed me that the tooth had decayed to the nerve and required root canal treatment.
However, after administering anesthesia and cleaning out the cavity, there was a significant hole left empty after filling it with medication.
Should I ask the dentist to fill it in? I'm worried about accidentally biting down on it while eating and breaking the tooth!

Alashi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/01

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

If the root canal treatment is halfway completed and not yet finished, the permanent filling will be done after the root canal treatment is completed, and consideration will be given to placing a crown to protect the tooth.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2022/07/01

More Info

After undergoing a root canal treatment, it is crucial to address the remaining cavity or hole in the tooth. The primary purpose of a root canal is to remove infected or damaged pulp from the tooth, which can alleviate pain and prevent further complications. However, once the procedure is completed, the tooth may be left with a significant void, especially if the decay was extensive.

In your case, since the dentist has already cleaned out the infected area and filled it with medication, it is essential to consider the next steps for the tooth's restoration. Leaving a large hole unfilled can lead to several issues:
1. Risk of Fracture: The tooth structure may become weakened without proper restoration. As you mentioned, there is a risk of biting down on something hard and fracturing the tooth. This is particularly concerning for molars, which bear a significant amount of chewing force.

2. Infection Risk: An open cavity can expose the tooth to bacteria, increasing the risk of reinfection. If bacteria enter the tooth, it could lead to a new infection, which may necessitate further treatment or even extraction.

3. Sensitivity: An unfilled cavity can lead to heightened sensitivity to temperature changes and pressure, making eating and drinking uncomfortable.

Given these considerations, it is advisable to have the hole filled as soon as possible. Typically, after a root canal, the dentist will recommend placing a permanent restoration, such as a crown or a filling, to protect the tooth. This restoration will help maintain the tooth's integrity and function.

What to Expect When Filling the Hole
When you return to the dentist for the filling, they will assess the condition of the tooth and the surrounding area. If the tooth is stable and there are no signs of ongoing infection, the dentist will likely proceed with the filling. Here are some common steps involved:
- Cleaning: The dentist will clean the area to ensure that no debris or bacteria remain.

- Filling Material: They will use a suitable filling material, which may include composite resin, amalgam, or glass ionomer, depending on the location and extent of the cavity.

- Shaping and Polishing: After the filling is placed, the dentist will shape it to ensure a proper bite and polish it for comfort.

Long-Term Considerations
After the filling, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent future decay. Regular dental check-ups will help monitor the tooth's condition and ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. If the tooth has undergone significant structural loss, your dentist may recommend a crown to provide additional support and protection.

In conclusion, it is highly recommended to fill the hole after root canal treatment to prevent complications such as fracture, reinfection, and sensitivity. Discuss your concerns with your dentist, and they will guide you on the best course of action to ensure the longevity and health of your tooth.

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