Expert: Tony Appleton BDS DPDS - 2/10/2008

Question
Hey thanks for taking my question. I just received a painless Root canal Friday the 8th. It was a upper molar that had 4 canals. He filled it with a white composite. Driving home I looked at it, looked good, all white. The next day , I looked at it and it looked a little discolored. So I got the flashlight out and took a close look at it. The once pure white filling(pre crown), now has a small nail head size, maybe pin head size red mark. I'm wondering if one of the canals were not adequately dried. I know it's only been one day but that spot makes me wonder. Also it hurts to bite down on that side. The good thing is my nerve is no longer exposed. I can eat and drink in stereo again. I would appreciate you pro's & cons on this situation. Thanks, Doug.

Answer
Hi Doug

It is not unusual for the tooth to be tender to bite on for a few days after root canal - this should settle on it's own, but if not go back.

I doubt very much that the red spot you see relates to the root filling in any way, but to find out exactly what it is you need to see the dentist again.

Regards

Tony Appleton