Looking for info on choosing a Cosmetic Dentist?

Re: Cracked Molar

Posted by cs on 8/19/2009, 10:19 am, in reply to "Cracked Molar"

<<I'm terrified that if I get this crown, I'll just be opening up a whole can of worms. >> That's true . . . if your dentist's diagnosis is accurate. But ignoring the problem could lead to an even worse result. There's no way to predict what the outcome if you reject his advice. For example, when I was in my early teens, I underwent a very difficult root canal on a top central incisor. (Dentist did not realize it was a "hot tooth" . . . anesthetic did not take . . . so dentist proceeded to ream out the tooth without it!!!) I've never known if it was because the incident traumatized him as much as it did me, or because generally, front teeth were (or maybe still are) left uncrowned after r.c. treatment) — but the dentist sent me home with the tooth unprotected. It showed no signs of trouble — FOR 30 YEARS! Then fractured unexpectedly when my then-young son stood up quickly and bumped his head into the bottom of my chin. [Ironically, just a few weeks earlier, the new dentist caring for my teeth at the time had recommended a crown for that tooth, but like you, I preferred to let sleeping dogs lie.] Of course I could not predict the accident, but when it happened the damage was catastrophic. The tooth fractured vertically from midway on its face up to the tip of the root, damaging the surrounding bone, as well. My dentist managed to rescue the tooth with a post and crown, which helped a little cosmetically — but the tooth itself was fragile and barely functional. The gum also did not heal completely and as it gradually receded, left the makeshift crown looking considerably longer than the adjacent teeth. It actually turned out to be a blessing when after 25 years of pounding on those front teeth, the weakened bone no longer could continue to support the post holding the crown. Both were replaced with an implant that finally restored my natural smile. My only regret is that the tooth was not crowned in the first place. Based on my own experience, you probably can guess my recommendation. But if you have any doubt about your dentist' diagnosis, a second opinion could set your mind at ease.

---

Responses: Re: Cracked Molar - Tara 8/20/2009, 10:04 pm « Back to thread

---

Post a Response

Home | Procedures | Discussion Boards | Experiences
Photos | Finding a Dentist | Information Resources
Common Questions | Polls | Chat | Site Map | Search Site
Send Us Feedback

Copyright ©2001-2008 by About Cosmetic Dentistry
Legal Notices and Site Usage Agreement - Please Read
Comments or Questions? - Contact webmaster@aboutcosmeticdentistry.com