Is My Dental Treatment After an Accident Correct? Seeking Advice - Dentistry

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After a dental accident, it is crucial to ensure that the treatment you received is appropriate and effective. From your description, it seems that you underwent root canal therapy followed by the placement of a dental crown on your upper front tooth, which was fractured in the accident. While it is common practice to perform a root canal treatment on a tooth that has been severely damaged, there are several factors to consider regarding your current situation.

Firstly, it is important to understand that after a root canal treatment, the tooth can become more brittle, which is why a crown is often placed to provide structural support. The crown is designed to restore the tooth's function and aesthetics. However, if the crown was placed after significant reduction of the tooth structure, it may lead to changes in your bite, which could explain the discomfort you are experiencing.

You mentioned that when you bite down, your lower teeth seem to hit the back of the upper crown, and you feel some pain in the root area after prolonged biting. This could indicate a few potential issues:
1. Bite Misalignment: If the crown is higher than the adjacent teeth or if your bite has changed due to the accident, it could lead to an improper occlusion (bite alignment). This misalignment can cause undue stress on the tooth and surrounding structures, leading to discomfort or pain.

2. Crown Fit: If the crown does not fit properly, it may not distribute the biting forces evenly. This can lead to pressure on the tooth root, resulting in pain. A poorly fitting crown can also lead to gum irritation or inflammation, which can exacerbate discomfort.

3. Underlying Issues: If the root canal treatment was not entirely successful or if there is residual infection or inflammation in the tooth, this could also cause pain. Sometimes, even after a root canal, the tooth can remain sensitive or painful, especially if there are complications that were not addressed during the initial treatment.

4. Jaw and Muscle Issues: Sometimes, discomfort can arise from the muscles and joints involved in chewing. If your bite is off, it can lead to muscle strain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, which can cause pain in the jaw and teeth.

Given these possibilities, it is essential to follow up with your dentist or an endodontist (a specialist in root canal treatments) to evaluate the situation further. They may recommend:
- Bite Adjustment: A simple adjustment to the crown may alleviate the discomfort by ensuring that your bite is properly aligned.

- X-rays: To check for any underlying issues with the root or surrounding bone that may not be visible during a clinical examination.

- Further Treatment: If there is evidence of infection or if the root canal treatment was not successful, additional treatment may be necessary.

In summary, while some discomfort can be expected after dental procedures, persistent pain, especially when biting, is not typical and should be addressed. It is crucial to communicate your concerns with your dental care provider, who can perform a thorough examination and provide the necessary adjustments or treatments to ensure your dental health and comfort. Regular follow-ups and open communication with your dentist are key to achieving the best outcomes after dental treatments, especially following trauma.