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Q: I had a broken first molar that already had a crown. About one-third of the tooth was left. My dentist told me one of the roots had been treated, but the other two seem calcified and difficult to access. He added a mummifying compound. He warned me that a new crown may have some risk of problems with those roots and he wanted to refer me to an endodontic specialist. Based on cost/benefit, it seems better to take out the rest of the tooth and get an implant, rather than risk an infection. What do you think?

December 8, 2008

I will begin by assuming a few important things. First, I assume that the root canal was done some time ago and that the two roots in question have not been giving you any problems. Second, I assume that the tooth in question has sufficient bone support, is stable, and that the gums around it are healthy.

If those things are true, I would recommend keeping the tooth. In my opinion it is always best if you can keep your natural teeth. If your dentist can restore the tooth with a new crown, I would choose a that over removing the tooth and getting an implant.

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Endodontics/Root Canal

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