Expert: Tony Appleton BDS DPDS - 10/15/2007

Question
I had a composite restauration done in an upper molar 2 months ago because I had a cavity near the root, between two molars.
Immediately after the restauration, the tooth hurt a lot when drinking or eating something hot, and this lasted for weeks. The pain lingered on for several minutes.
Now, the molar is still sensitive especially for cold (hot too but not like in the first weeks), but less severe. It still lingers for several minutes though.
The pain is localised to the spot where the cavity was.
My dentist checked the vitality with a cold liquid last week and this was very painful but according to him meant that the nerve was still alive.
I do have exposed roots due to gum recession. My dentist thinks the pain might come from that. I have used Sensodyne for weeks now and the dentist put some desensitizing agent on the roots but it didn't help.

This week I have an appointment with the endodontist. Still, I have doubts. Won't the nerve heal by itself since it has become better this last weeks? Does RCT help with exposed roots or sensitive teeth? The waiting list is long (7 weeks) and if I cancel now, I can only come back begin December...

I went to 3 different dentists and they all tell me they don't know. I seldom have spontaneous pain, only sometimes in the evening, never at night, never throbbing...


Answer
Hi Aileen

The sensitivity to cold generally indicates the nerve is still alive. I would suggest that before diving in to root canal treatment it would be sensible to have the new filling removed and a sedative temporary filling placed. If the tooth settles than the filling can be replaced, but if not then go for root canal.

Regards

Tony Appleton