Hi
I had root canal and crown done 4.5 yrs ago, 6 mths ago, I felt pain from that tooth, and got it checked lately... my dentist said that its infected and shaky... option given was either I extract it or redo the whole process of root canal and new crown?

I thot root canal is ridding the nerves of that tooth.. how come it will still get infections and pain? what should I do now?

If to extract.. do I require surgery? can't it be extracted like any normal tooth? advise?

Look forward to your response?

Regards
AL

flossie

AL,

When the original root canal was done there may have been a lot of infection and it just never cleared up. There is also a possibility that all the roots were not cleaned out thoroughly or even found. Sometimes there are surprises and extra canals are found. It's not that uncommon.

Having the tooth removed would be no different than any other extraction.

Ideally, you should see an endodontist to have him/her assess the tooth for the best treatment for it. Keep in mind, if you have the tooth removed that you really should consider replacing it with an implant or bridge unless it's a tooth that isn't in occlusion with the tooth above or below it.