I have two crowns on upper molars (furthest back and next to each other). Recently I've had some severe pain and was told I need a root canal on one of the teeth. Part of my dentist's treatment plan is to replace both crowns. I'm having the root canal done through the crown and she said that probably won't ruin the old crown. But she want's to remove both crowns to check for further decay and replace them. Does this seem necessary if I'm not having more problems? Eight years old does not seem too bad for a crown to me. This is a lot of money and I don't have insurance. Is it possible to remove and re-use old crowns? The plan also calls for a crown buildup. I'm also going to be evaluated for a root canal on the other tooth. But that tooth has not been a problem.

Usually decay on teeth with crowns starts at the gumline where the margin of the crown meets the tooth. This happens when plaque isn't being removed on a daily basis with brush and floss. A dentist should see the decay on an x-ray or feel it by using their explorer and checking around the tooth at the base of the crown.

I'd suggest dealing only with the tooth that is giving you the problem right now. I'd like to know how the dentist is "evaluating" the second tooth for a root canal. Can't she see if there is infection on the x-ray she took of the tooth that is bothering you? Both teeth should appear on the film if they are side by side. You could check that tooth yourself by using an ice cube and placing on the tooth (try to get it on the actual tooth if you can and not too much on the crown). If you feel the cold, the tooth is OK, if you don't, the nerve could be dead (and root canal is indicated).

Unfortunately, when crowns are removed, they are cut off... no chance to reuse.

The "crown buildup" is actually a core buildup. This is a filling the dentist has to do to be sure there is a sound structure to cement the crown on. (I'd ask her for a discount if she's doing root canal, core buildup and crown prep all the same day, especially if you are not insured or have a large co-pay. I was taught by my mom... if you don't ask, you won't get!)

I hope this information helps you out. By the way, I have crowns in my mouth that have been there 30 years. (I must have been born with them! ;)