I have a molar which has been extensively filled, but recently cracked and is giving me pain. When I saw the dentist he did an x-ray and showed me that the decay is to the nerve. He told me that I could have an extraction or I would need root canal surgery and a crown.

The dentist pushed me more towards the extraction option saying that there wouldn not be much tooth left by the time the decay is drilled out and a crown could end up not working because of that.

I agreed to an extraction, but am having second thoughts. The tooth is on my bottom right side and is the first molar after my front teeth. I have teeth either side which are filled, but okay and all the teeth above it. You do not see this tooth when I smile, but only just.

Because I am in the UK and because I would be entitled to free treatment no matter which option I choose I just wanted to get another opinion in case the dentist was looking after the interests of his surgery rather than my best interests, if you know what I mean.

What about a false tooth put in as part of a bridge, once the bad tooth has been removed?

Thanks, I forgot to mention that I did ask about that, however it would cost me upwards of £1000 which I don't have. I'm covered for medically necessary treatments on the NHS and don't have to pay because of my maternity exemption, but an implant wouldn't be covered.

I'm not thinking of an implant as much as a false tooth that would sit above the gum line.

I think I'd go for the root canal and crown simply because then I'd know. It might work and it might not, but at least I would know I gave the tooth a chance.

Would you go to this dentist for the root canal, or to a specialist?

Can you get a second opinion about the viability of the tooth, or doesn't your dental system work that way?

I think it is done at the dentist.

I've just phoned and asked to speak to him, because I am just not sure. The tooth directly above that one is dodgy anyway, so I just think I'll end up putting pressure on there and making myself more problems. A bridge seems like a good possibility! I don't kow whether I'd have to pay for that though. Could be expensive!