Two Recently Crowned Teeth Need Root Canals?

It sounds as though that these teeth have had extensive work done in a relativley short period of time.  The pain that you are describing can be an early sign that you will have one or two root canals.  Thepulpal inflammation may subside, but you should see a dentist for another opinion to ease your mind.  A root canal is always the last option in my office, but sometimes it is the only choice to relieve your symptoms.  The odds are that most or all of your pain is coming from one of the two teeth and not both.  If this is the case then only one root canal would be required.  Good luck. 

Teeth can be sensitive for a number of reasons. The sensitivity could be more root exposure after the crown lengthening. It could be a bonding issue, or it could be due to the Occlusion (bite). Many times when crowns are placed you are numb. When the dentist checks the bite you think you are biting correctly, however, the you may have a slight interference when biting or moving your teeth. I would have your dentist check your bite first, and then start to eliminate other possibilities. I would not just jump right into root canals, unless you have some radiographic indications, or spontaneous pain, or swelling. I  believe that a second opinion can not hurt. The best thing is to visit the dentist who originally did the work  and resolve this with him/her.

I would recommend getting a second opinion before you do any more treatment.  Sensitivity can arise from a variety of issues.  In your case in particular it can come from:


the crown lengthening surgery - the gums may not have healed yet

there could be excess cement that was not cleaned out completely

the crowns may be "high" - you hit them first when you bite down

after crown preps you may have some discomfort for a week or two


Get a second opinion by someone you can trust and go from there.  Before you get a root canal I would even get a third opinion.  Remember: measure twice and cut once!