Is it dangerous to drill through an infected dental crown to do a root canal?

Question

I have an ill-fitting dental crown that's been in place for about 7 years. Because it doesn't fit properly, there's a huge gap between the crown and the gum line. My endodontist suspects infection, and he's going to redo the root canal by drilling through the crown. If there's a lot of bacteria inside the crown itself, could drilling through the crown cause that bacteria to be pushed up into the canals?

Ira Shapira, DDS · Answer

No, but you will need a Post and Core and new crown after the root canal is complete.  The endodontist will probably seal the whole prior to working.  It is easier to remove the crown prior to doing the root canal therapy.You want to make sure the tooth is restorable prior to spending money on root canal therapy.Ira L Shapira DDS, D,ABDSM, D,AAPM, FICCMO

Paul D. Kantor, DDS · Answer

No,
it’s not a problem. Your endodontist will clean and disinfect the canals as
part of the procedure. You will need the tooth to be built up and a new crown
done. Your dentist can determine whether or not a post is needed.

Barry Jason, DDS · Answer

If the crown does not fit right,,why would you leave it on? Best to remove it prior to retreatment and then have a properly fitted new one made.

Is it dangerous to drill through an infected dental crown to do a root canal?

Answers (3)