Root Canals: Weighing Risks and Benefits for Your Teeth

Tooth root issues?

Hello, doctor.
I am twenty-five years old.
In April, I went to a private dental clinic for a filling and discovered that three of my molars had severe decay.
The dentist recommended root canal treatment.
However, due to the high cost and my lack of understanding of what a root canal entails, I opted for just having the three teeth filled.
After returning home, I found that those teeth were very sensitive to cold water, and when eating meat, I felt that the three molars were weaker than before.
Therefore, I decided to pursue root canal treatment.

When I went to a public hospital, the dentist informed me that root canal treatment is not always successful and could potentially fail, which might lead to extraction.
After hearing this, I reconsidered whether to proceed with the root canal.
There are certain risks associated with the procedure, but not doing it could lead to the need for extraction, which would mean losing all three molars and affecting my chewing ability.

The dentist asked if I felt any pain after the fillings.
Since the fillings, I sometimes experience sensitivity in those teeth.
The dentist provided me with a sensitivity toothpaste and advised me to think it over.
Additionally, I have just started orthodontic treatment, so the dentist is concerned that this might affect my progress.

I would like to hear your opinion, doctor.
Currently, I do not feel any tooth pain, just that the filled areas are particularly sensitive to cold water.
However, the root canal treatment for the three molars may not be successful.
What should I do now?

boey, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/12

Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan reply Dentistry

Dear user, based on your description, you have three cavities in your molars, and after filling them, you are experiencing sensitivity to cold water.
It is recommended that you monitor the symptoms of tooth sensitivity for any improvement.
If you experience persistent pain after exposure to hot or cold stimuli, or if you have spontaneous pain, it is advisable to have your dentist conduct a further examination, and if necessary, perform root canal treatment.
Regarding whether the root canal treatment will affect your orthodontic treatment, it is best to consult with your treating dentist for appropriate adjustments and management.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2015/07/12

More Info

When considering root canal treatment (RCT), it's essential to weigh the risks and benefits, especially in your case where you have multiple teeth that are severely decayed. Root canal therapy is a procedure designed to save a tooth that has become infected or severely decayed, and it involves removing the infected pulp from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and then filling and sealing them.

Risks of Root Canal Treatment
1. Treatment Failure: One of the primary concerns with RCT is the possibility of treatment failure. This can occur if the infection is not entirely cleared, or if there are complex root canal systems that are difficult to treat. In some cases, a tooth may still require extraction even after a root canal.

2. Post-Operative Pain: After the procedure, some patients experience discomfort or pain, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. However, in some cases, the pain can persist, indicating a potential complication.

3. Need for Retreatment or Extraction: If the initial root canal treatment fails, you may need to undergo retreatment, which can be more complicated. In some cases, extraction may become necessary if the tooth cannot be saved.

4. Cost: As you mentioned, RCT can be expensive, and if the treatment fails, the costs can accumulate, especially if extraction and subsequent tooth replacement options (like implants or bridges) are needed.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
1. Tooth Preservation: The primary benefit of RCT is that it allows you to keep your natural tooth. This is crucial for maintaining your bite and preventing adjacent teeth from shifting.

2. Pain Relief: RCT can relieve the pain associated with tooth decay and infection. Once the pulp is removed and the tooth is sealed, the source of the pain is eliminated.

3. Functionality: After a successful root canal, the treated tooth can function normally, allowing you to chew and bite without discomfort.

4. Aesthetic Considerations: Keeping your natural teeth can help maintain your facial structure and appearance, as tooth loss can lead to changes in your smile and jawline.

Your Current Situation
Given that you are experiencing sensitivity after having your cavities filled, it’s crucial to monitor this closely. Sensitivity to cold can be a normal response after dental work, but if it persists or worsens, it may indicate that the decay was more extensive than initially thought, and the pulp may be affected.

Since you are also undergoing orthodontic treatment (as suggested by your mention of "cooling" your teeth), it’s essential to consider how any dental procedures might impact your orthodontic progress. Discussing your concerns with both your orthodontist and your dentist can provide a comprehensive view of how to proceed.

Recommendations
1. Consultation: Schedule a consultation with an endodontist (a specialist in root canal treatment) to get a second opinion on the necessity and urgency of the root canal treatment for your three decayed teeth. They can provide insights into the likelihood of success based on the condition of your teeth.

2. Monitoring Sensitivity: Keep track of your sensitivity. If it worsens or if you begin to experience pain, seek dental care promptly.
3. Consider Financial Options: If cost is a concern, inquire about payment plans or financing options that some dental practices offer. Additionally, check if your dental insurance covers any part of the root canal treatment.

4. Long-Term Planning: If you decide to proceed with RCT, discuss the long-term care and maintenance of your teeth post-treatment, including any necessary follow-up visits.

In conclusion, while root canal treatment does carry risks, it also offers significant benefits, particularly in preserving your natural teeth and maintaining your oral health. It’s essential to make an informed decision based on professional advice and your personal circumstances.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Tooth Pain After Root Canal: Should You Consider Dentures?

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 m...

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 ea...

Can a Tooth with Years of Root Canal Treatment Be Saved?

Hello, Doctor. I have some questions I would like to ask you. My upper left molar had a root canal treatment several years ago due to deep decay. The dentist who performed the procedure mentioned that my dental nerve was the thinnest and longest she had ever seen in her career, m...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Ms. Anonymous: Hello! If there is a shadow on the tooth root, treatment is necessary! If you suspect a tooth fracture, a CT scan can confirm it! Otherwise, you can place a crown for protection and observation! Take care! Wishing you peace and success! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Ti...

Root Canal Treatment and Orthodontics: Common Concerns and Answers

Hello, Doctor. I will be undergoing root canal treatment and orthodontics, and I have two questions: 1) Regarding root canal treatment: After the placement of the post and the crown, will there be a gap between the crown and the actual tooth root that could harbor bacteria and ...

Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Hello, 1. The dental braces are precisely cast to fit snugly with the teeth, which minimizes the risk of harboring plaque. However, it is still important to maintain good oral hygiene, as while the tooth roots do not decay, plaque and tartar can lead to periodontal disease if n...

Common Dental Concerns: Root Canals, Dentures, and Oral Care Tips

Hello Dr. Lin, I have some questions regarding dental care. 1. Is root canal treatment covered by health insurance? If it is just a simple procedure to create a dental crown, what is the typical duration of the treatment? What is the normal lifespan of a dental crown? 2. Elec...

Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
Hello Miss Vicky, 1. Root canal treatment is included in the National Health Insurance coverage, and the fabrication of dentures varies based on the complexity. In the best-case scenario, they can last at least 10 years, although the user's habits should also be taken into...