Expert: Steven C. Scherr, D.D.S. - 7/8/2006

Question
Dear Steven

I have suffered from tooth abscesses on my front two teeth since they were smashed at the age of 8. I believe to date i have had 3, the last occurring last year. I subsequently (reaching 20) saw th as an oppurtunity to have the tooth capped. Now, one year on, the tooth has become tender again and i will contact my dentist ASAP, but wanted to know if a crown on the front tooth can be drained via root canal surgery without need for removal of the crown.

Many Thanks

Matthew

Answer
Matthew,

Root canal treatment can often be accomplished through a crown without removing it.  A hole is made in the back of the crown, where it will not be visible, in order to gain access to the nerve canal.  Surgery can be considered if non-surgical treatment has failed or there are anatomic obstacles present.

Best wishes,

Steve