I had the top left molar removed 7 weeks ago due to an abscess, the tooth beside it has a large filling and that tooth has had a root canal done in September 09. When the molar was extracted I ended up with a " Dry Socket" unbelievable pain, which lasted for over 2 weeks. The extraction gum line is healing but still sensitive to touch or chew on. The real concern is the tooth beside it. Still very sensitive to touch or wiggle with my finger or tongue. It s not sensitive to heat or cold, just does not feel right. I have had 2 x-rays and it shows nothing, the dentist says the extraction is healing nicely, but does take time. ( I am a 50 year old male in good health). What could be going on with this tooth sensitivity? I am going to go back to the periodontist that did the root canal and see what he suggests. Any ideas, would be welcome.

The dry socket is from the exposed bone where the clot is lost and tissue does not granulate in fast enough. Breathing in makes you jump with pain as the air gets to the bone. Several different things could cause sensitivity on the root canal tooth. The extraction on the tooth beside it puts pressure
On the interdental bone between the two teeth and often makes the remaining tooth a little sensitive and loose. Also both teeth are connected by nerves in the bone and you could be getting some "referred" pain.
The periodontist can tell you about the bone and tissue, the actual root canal was probably done by and endodontist. Pains are usually divided into periodontal pain (gum and bone) or endodontal (tooth)pain .You said that it just doesn't feel right... remember, you had a tooth removed that carried much of the occlusal pressure when you bit down, so some of that pressure is probably being absorbed by the remaining tooth and would make your bite feel very different.. Give it time..

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Originally Posted by drbeetlebaum

The dry socket is from the exposed bone where the clot is lost and tissue does not granulate in fast enough. Breathing in makes you jump with pain as the air gets to the bone. Several different things could cause sensitivity on the root canal tooth. The extraction on the tooth beside it puts pressure
on the interdental bone between the two teeth and often makes the remaining tooth a little sensitive and loose. Also both teeth are connected by nerves in the bone and you could be getting some "referred" pain.
The periodontist can tell you about the bone and tissue, the actual root canal was probably done by and endodontist. Pains are usually divided into periodontal pain (gum and bone) or endodontal (tooth)pain .You said that it just doesn't feel right...remember, you had a tooth removed that carried much of the occlusal pressure when you bit down, so some of that pressure is probably being absorbed by the remaining tooth and would make your bite feel very different.. Give it time..

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My dentist who I believe is very good ( practicing for 12 years ) and happens to be my neighbor and friend says the same as you. I was looking for a second opinion and now I have one. Thank you. How much time should I give this... it has been 7 weeks now? The root canal was done by a very through endontist, he does about 1200 to 1300 RC's a year and has been doing it for 15 years. Just very frustrating issue. Once again, thank you for your input.