Expert: Tony Appleton BDS DPDS - 6/6/2007

Question
I have quite a bit of anxiety about going to the dentist and have not been in 5 years. Last year, one of my very back molars on the upper right side that had already been treated with a root canal and covered with a porcelain crown cracked and literally a chunk fell out leaving what felt like an outside shell of my tooth with a big hole in the center. A few months ago part of that tooth cracked and feels "wiggly" and now have and odd taste in my mouth when my tongue touches the tooth. Can my tooth be saved? Also, any suggestions on what I can do about the terrible anxiety I have about going to see the dentist? Thank you!

Answer
Hi Jennifer

I'm afraid it doesn't sound very good for this tooth. Obviously part of the remaining tooth has fractured, but you really will need to see a dentist to get an opinion as to whether or not the tooth can be saved.

The odd taste is probably infection, so you should see someone soon.

As to your anxiety - see if you can find a dentist local to you who specialises in treating dental phobics - they will be able to treat you and hopefully sort out your anxiety concerns at the same time.

Regards

Tony Appleton