Expert: Benjamin Schwartz, DDS FAGD - 11/5/2008

Question
I had a crown put on a molar about ten days ago.  Nothing was particularly wrong with the tooth initially.  The tooth had a rather large filling and the dentist recommended the crown since the tooth would probably crack in the next year or so.  Being towards the end of the year.....my insurance coverage almost out.....I opted for it.

After placing the crown on the tooth, I noticed severe sensitivity to things that were cold.  I then began to have a fever a couple days later....and still have it.  When I went back to the dentist last week for her to adjust the crown...it was too high.... she recommended a root canal.  I have never had one before and nothing was wrong with the tooth until she started the crown procedure.

I still have the severe sensitivity and a low-grade fever.  My appt. is tom. at 1:00 p.m.  What should I expect?  And should I have to pay for this....possibly root canal and any other treatment for fever?

Help!

Answer
Hi Theresa,

When teeth have large old fillings, they tend to start breaking down and cracking. This can then lead to the tooth fracturing, and needing to be removed.

As a preventative measure, your doctor recommended the crown, as it would encompass the entire tooth, and distribute the biting forces more evenly.

However, every time a tooth is drilled into, there is a chance that the nerve can become irritated. Sometimes, the irritation lasts for just a few days. Other times, the nerve can become so inflamed, that the only remedy for this is a root canal.

Unfortunately, there is no way to tell how you will react until after the procedure. Some people's nerves don't bother them, and others do. Your dentist should have warned you of the risks of the procedure, however. We are human, and everyone's body reacts differently.

A root canal is where the nerve (which is inflamed) is removed, and then the canal space is cleaned out and filled. You might experience some discomfort for a day or so afterwards, but it should be much less painful than the pain you are having now. Also, your dentist may break up the procedure into 2-3 visits depending on your case.

If your dentist informed you of the risks, and you agreed to proceed, then she did nothing wrong. She might be willing to take a little bit off the price of the root canal. However, it still is her time, equipment and supplies being used, which costs her.

I do hope you feel better soon.
Please let me know if you have any other questions.