Deep filling still hurts after a week...do I need a root canal?
Deep filling still hurts after a week...do I need a root canal?
Added: March 04, 2008 - 11:52 AM
By: Patient Email Withheld, Herndon, DC
Need Dentist / Specialist:
Yes
Provide Cost Estimate:
No
X-rays Available:
No
Case Summary
Filling
Root Canal
Teeth: 6
Last Full Mouth X-Ray: Feb 10, 2008
Last Cleaning: Feb 10, 2008
Case Description
I just moved to the area and saw a new dentist recommended by a friend. It turns out that friend never actually had any work done with the dentist (perfect teeth, unlike me) and now I can't get a straight answer out of this dentist on whether or not I need a root canal since the filling (white composite) still has lingering pain. (I've gone back twice since). So the first part of my question is, can anyone recommend an excellent, nice and informative dentist in the Herndon/Dulles area?
Now about the tooth...the Dr. originally told me the tooth might end up needing a root canal before I went in last week and set up for one just in case, but then it turned out the cavity was around the back of the tooth and not as close to the nerve as the x-ray showed. She did say that after it was filled I could still need a root canal, but said probably only if I feel throbbing or aching pain or if it wakes me up in the middle of the night. Well, I haven't woken up because of the pain, but I have had to stop chewing on that side and take a couple advil every 6 hours or so (pain is pretty constant and about a 4 or 5 out of 10). There is no sign of infection from x-rays taken today, but she used the term "no sign of infection yet." Is it possible that the tooth still hurts from the trama and that it will go away soon? I am aware that white fillings do cause more sensitivity but this is moreso pain rather sensitivity.
I am leaving for a week-long vacation in two days and would really hate to have the toothache get worse and ruin my trip so any advice or dentist recommendations would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
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Reply: Deep filling still hurts after a week...do I need a root canal?
added: March 04, 2008 - 12:21 PM
You should consult with an endodontist, but it sounds like you may need a root canal. I work with advancedendo.com which is a great group of endodontists, just not in NOVA. May be worth the trip to Rockville considering you probably will only need 1-2 visits before returning to a general dentist for a crown. Yes, you will need a crown if you receive a root canal on a back tooth.
Reply: Deep filling still hurts after a week...do I need a root canal?
added: March 04, 2008 - 1:13 PM
It sounds like you probably need an endodontic consultation. We would be happy to see you in our office for this consultation at no charge to you. If you would like to learn more about our office, please visit our website at www.endocc.com.
Reply: Deep filling still hurts after a week...do I need a root canal?
added: March 04, 2008 - 1:51 PM
We have an office in Herndon. We would be happy to evaluate your tooth and can do so anytime wednesday or thursday.Drs Skinner, Ossakow and Hopkins703-437-0333www.centrevilledentist.com
Reply: Deep filling still hurts after a week...do I need a root canal?
added: March 04, 2008 - 6:47 PM
Set aside emotionallly for the possibility that you will need to have a root canal if not while on vacation (hopefully not overseas dentistry) then eventually when back at home. Unchanging pain and the necessity to medicate usually indicates an irreversibly inflammed nerve which equals root canal. Enjoy your vacation.
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