Redo Root Canal Because of Pain

Hi Doctor, My Problem is i had a root canal in a tooth then a bridge was placed over this tooth for a missing tooth next to it , that was 5 years ago , but now i have pain in this tooth and dentist say i have to redo the root canal , some say i have to remove the bridge and some say through the bridge but no one is sure, i want to keep the bridge , i had some antibiotic and the pain is gone for 4 month now , do you think it is necessary and can i keep the bridge , thanks alot for your help

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Answer: Root canal retreatment

By Sarah h
Dental Professional

Re-treatment of a root canal is not uncommon.  An endodontist can easily perform your root canal and many times through the bridge, if the tooth is not decayed under it.  Without seeing a dental x-ray and your individual tooth, it is impossible to determine the best option.  Most doctors will try to salvage your bridge if it is possible.  However, if the margin of the tooth is involved, or the position of the tooth makes it impossible to treat through the bridge, it is best to have it remade.  You need the best option for the tooth long-term so you do not loose the tooth in the next few years.  If you do not feel confident with the suggested treatment, have a second opinion with another dentist.  A bridge is a large investment, as is a root canal.  The last thing you want to do, is to loose the tooth and not have the option of saving it.  Although the tooth has not been bothering you, it will come back and usually worse.  Do not wait for the tooth to hurt.  The cause of the infection is still there and will continue to get worse with or without symptoms.

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