Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2006/10/31
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Rick Dykstra wrote: A friend at work says that her dentist offered to do a root canal on >> her cracked molar, though she had it extracted at the time (it was a >> wizzy). So the question is, is doing a root canal on a cracked >> molar like mine generally an option, or not? Perhaps my dentist is >> a little conservative. ?? >> OK, I'll out myself as a dentist, although more research than clinical. The basic idea here is that if the crack extends into the pulp chamber or the root canal(s), then the canals can never be sealed, and a traditional root canal filling won't work. If the crack is superficial or glancing and doesn't involve the pulp chamber, a root canal might work, but you'd want to put a crown (cap) on the tooth to keep the crack from getting worse. Even then there might be some risk of failure. Without seeing the actual tooth or xray, I would venture a guess that extraction is the only option. Since the tooth you describe is the first molar (3rd from the back), it's a pretty important one from the standpoint of chewing, etc. If it were me I'd go for a replacement either by bridge or implant. Either one will cost you a bundle, so if you were planning on ordering that M8, think again ;-). I have several implants myself and they are quite a good solution. But they are expensive, at least in the USA ($3-4000). And Walt, put down that tube of Superglue because it won't work ;-). -- Phil Swango 307 Aliso Dr SE Albuquerque, NM 87108 505-262-4085