3 year old full gold crown lower right hand molar needs root canal. Does it need to be replaced?

Hello Gary,In some cases, a root canal through an existing crown will not require another crown to be done, but in many cases, another crown will be required.  It sounds like your dentist has determined that another crown will be needed.  If you are dissatisfied with his explanation, I would recommend getting a second opinion.  However, if you find that the second dentist gives you the same opinion, you should go ahead and get the crown.  Good luck and I hope this helps. Follow me if you have more questions.Sarah Thompson, DMDReal Self 100

Hi, thanks for the question; if the crown is completely gold I recommend change too Zirconia, because is not toxic and if you remove the crown it's better to do the root canal and if you try to do the root canal with this crown the dentist has to perforate the crown. 

When the root canal is done the dentist will drill a hole in the center of your crown. It will not be a perfect as it is now. This hole can be filled in with filling material or a new crown can be made. Either option will work. Many crowns with fillings after root canals last for an extended period of time. I would ask your dentist about their reasons for remaking your crown.