My roommate had a root canal last year and now it is abscessed. Her dentist wants to extract her tooth without trying to do anything to save the tooth. I don’t understand this. Am I missing something? My dad was a dentist before he died a couple of years ago. I remember him saying it was always important to do everything to save a tooth before you extract it. My poor roommate is taking about 12 advils a day. They haven’t given her any antibiotics and can’t see her for at least five more weeks. Do you have a recommendation?

Jennifer A.- Wyoming

Jennifer,

It sounds like you are proud of your father and he was a good dentist. You are also a great roommate to care enough to get information for her.  Each dentist has a different treatment philosophy.  So, some feel it is more important to save a tooth than others.

Your roommate has what is known as a failed root canal treatment. This can happen even when everything is done correctly. I am concerned that she hasn’t been given many explanations or options. Plus her appointment is so far out that I wonder if this office is just too busy.There is almost always an option going back in and re-treating the root canal, or root canal surgery to save a tooth. Those options and the risks and benefits should be explained. If I were in her place, I would get a second opinion.

This blog is brought to you by Oklahoma City Dentist Dr. Don Swearingen.