Expert: Rafael Mosery,D.D.S. - 10/18/2009

Question
I had my back 2 molars filled about 10 years ago the 2nd to back one developed pulpitis 12 weeks ago
my dentisthas been trying to save it with various treatments over the said time period
I have an acbess that was lanced a week ago he has drilled away the filling and taken the dying I think most of the dying nerve away
and I have a tempory filling while I'm on my 3rd course of antibiotics
the abcess does not seem to be going at all and I'm worried if we have to extract the tooth that I  will have a big
gap were it used to be. I'm a singer and it would be really noticeable on stage.
What do you think are my options with the back molar already having a filling In.
I am 37 years old and have only 1 wisdom on the other side.
Many thanks Justine

Answer
The tooth requires a root canal treatment to eliminate the source of infection.After this is done successfully a post and crown should be fabricated.If the root canal was already performed and you're still having problems you have two choices.Retreat the root canal OR remove the tooth.It could be replaced with a dental implant.