Post-Root Canal Treatment Concerns: What You Need to Know

Q: Post-Root Canal Treatment Concerns: What You Need to Know

Hello： It is safer to opt for a dental crown, as teeth that have undergone root canal treatment are quite brittle. <br>If they fracture deeply, they may become irreparable. <br>Why not invest in a crown to avoid the need for a bridge or dental implant later? Regarding wisdom teet

Post-Root Canal Treatment Issues

Hello, about five years ago, I had a root canal treatment on one of my lower molars (the first two molars).
It had a slight fracture once, so I later had it filled with silver powder.
At that time, the dentist mentioned that my jaw was still developing and suggested waiting until I was 20 to consider further treatment.
It has been over four years, and currently, the tooth does not show any abnormalities.
If I continue to be careful not to bite hard objects, is it feasible to maintain the current condition? If I accidentally bite something hard and the tooth fractures, what would the treatment options be? My wisdom teeth are horizontally impacted, with only a small portion exposed and the rest covered by gum tissue.
Is it possible to extract the tooth that had root canal treatment and then align the wisdom teeth to fill the space?

Juzi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/24

Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry

Hello: It is safer to opt for a dental crown, as teeth that have undergone root canal treatment are quite brittle.
If they fracture deeply, they may become irreparable.
Why not invest in a crown to avoid the need for a bridge or dental implant later? Regarding wisdom teeth, it is best to consult an orthodontist in person, as some wisdom teeth have significantly varied root structures that may be difficult to extract.
Wishing you peace, health, and well-being.
Sincerely, Dr.
Huang Chih-Cheng, Director of Dentistry, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/02/24

More Info

Post-root canal treatment concerns are common among patients, especially when it comes to managing discomfort and ensuring the longevity of the treated tooth. It sounds like you have been through quite a journey with your dental health, and it's great to hear that your treated tooth has not shown any significant issues over the past four years. Here’s what you need to know regarding your concerns and the best practices moving forward.

Maintaining Your Treated Tooth
Since your root canal treatment was performed five years ago and you have not experienced any significant issues since, it is reasonable to continue monitoring the tooth. Regular dental check-ups are essential, as they allow your dentist to assess the condition of the tooth and surrounding structures. If you are careful not to bite down on hard objects, you can help maintain the integrity of the tooth. However, it’s important to remember that even with careful handling, there is always a risk of fracture, especially if the tooth has been previously compromised.

What to Do If the Tooth Fractures
If you do accidentally bite down on something hard and the tooth fractures, the treatment will depend on the extent of the fracture. Minor fractures may be managed with dental bonding or a filling, while more severe fractures may require a crown to restore the tooth's function and aesthetics. In some cases, if the fracture is extensive and compromises the tooth's structure significantly, extraction may be necessary. If extraction occurs, options for replacement include dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures, depending on your specific situation and preferences.

Concerns About Your Wisdom Tooth
Regarding your wisdom tooth, which is partially erupted and impacted, it’s important to consult with your dentist or an oral surgeon. The position of the wisdom tooth can complicate matters, especially if you are considering orthodontic treatment to align your teeth. If the wisdom tooth is causing crowding or is at risk of causing problems in the future, extraction may be recommended.

Orthodontic Considerations
If you do decide to have the wisdom tooth extracted, it may create space that could be beneficial for orthodontic treatment. However, the decision to move forward with braces or other orthodontic options should be made in consultation with an orthodontist. They can evaluate your overall dental alignment and determine the best course of action to achieve your desired results.

Conclusion
In summary, maintaining your treated tooth involves regular dental visits and being cautious about what you chew. If a fracture occurs, prompt evaluation and treatment by your dentist are crucial. Regarding your wisdom tooth, a thorough examination will help determine the best approach, whether it involves extraction or orthodontic treatment. Always communicate openly with your dental care providers about your concerns and treatment options to ensure the best outcomes for your dental health.

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