Expert: Rafael Mosery,D.D.S. - 9/25/2006

Question
Hi,

A couple of years ago, I have been fitted with a crown on one of the back  bottom teeth. I had a bad cavity there, and basically the nerves were removed, and for esthetic reasons they've put in a crown, which I think holds on a couple of 'rods' that were placed in the root, which is still there.  Recently I have been having pain in that area, especially when I eat (sweet).  I went, and the doctor said the crown was a little bit loose, so he took it off and put it back on.  I dont have much pain now from food, but it hurts to chew.  Basically the tooth is very sensitive.  Is it possible for the nerve to reappear? Because I cannot think of any other explanation why a crown on a tooth without nerves would be hurting.

Thank You
Roman

Answer
There's lots going on here. You need to find a dentist to take an x ray and see the health of the Root canal therapy the integrity of the post and crown(which doesn't sound to great)and the health of the surrounding periodontium(bone,gum etc.)Just because you had The RCT doesn't mean the tooth can't hurt if something is wrong.
Good Luck,
Dr.Rafael Mosery