Crown over root canal chipped. Do I need to call my dentist? (Photo)

Question

I had a root canal on a molar years ago and have had no issues since. Today, while chewing trident (the only gum we have due to my son's braces), I felt something hard. It appears to be a small piece of tooth. My molar feels different, but does not hurt. I believe this is one of the little spikes bits on top. Do I need to call my dentist? I was there for routine cleaning and xrays last week and everything was fine.

Scott Young, DDS · Answer

If a piece of tooth broke in your moutt then it would be wise to call your dentist.  I am not certain why that tooth was not crowned after the root canal, but it should be now before the tooth fractures further.  Good luck.

Supriya Verma, DMD, FAGD · Answer

Thank you for posting your question.  When you have Root Canal treatment on a tooth the nerve and blood supply is being removed.  As a result, the remaining tooth structure gets brittle and can easily fracture in time from chewing forces.  Usually, after root canal treatment, a post and crown is recommended to help restore the tooth and protect it so that it can withstand biting forces.  When a tooth fractures during chewing it is unpredictable how it will fracture.  In your case a very small piece fractured.  It is best to have your dentist look at it so that future fractures don't take place.  If a fracture occurs below the gum line then the tooth will no longer be able to be restored and will need to be extracted. So, get it checked out before its too late.  Good Luck!

Joseph B. Silberman, DMD, FAGD · Answer

You should definitely see your dentist. You want to make sure that the tooth doesn't break further so you don't lose the tooth. As the expression goes, It's better to be safe than sorry.

Crown over root canal chipped. Do I need to call my dentist? (Photo)

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Crown over root canal chipped. Do I need to call my dentist? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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