Expert: Mark Bornfeld DDS - 10/29/2007

Question
I have just gotten back from a trip to dentist. They are saying that I need a root canal on a molar (farthest back on right side) that had had a temporary filling in it. Apparently the roots have some calcification to them. From  what I am reading, this is akin to nature's way of doing root canal. It is not causing pain or etc, however the tooth's temp filling is almost gone. Also there is not much left of middle of tooth structure so I assuming that crown would be necessary. My question is how necessary is the root canal? Thanks for any info or help..

A.Moffatt

Answer
Dear Amity,

Pulp calcification is most assuredly not nature's way of doing a root canal. In fact, pulp calcification is further evidence that there is an inflammatory process present in the pulp-- dystrophic calcification is a common phenomenon in disease states throughout the body.

The problem with pulp calcification is that it complicates the root canal process. This is something that needs to be considered prior to root canal, because severe calcification can actually frustrate efforts toward a successful result. That is why you should consider having your root canal performed by an endodontic specialist rather than a general dentist, because the more advanced skills of a specialist may be required in order to prevail over the technical obstacles involved. You should ask your dentist if it would be advisable to see a specialist for this purpose if he does not suggest a referral on his own initiative.

Hope this helps...

Mark Bornfeld DDS
www.dentaltwins.com
Brooklyn, NY