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Root Canal: How long do I have left?

  • 12-07-2010 3:28pm
    #1
    jv2000
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 286 ✭✭


    Recently I went for a dental check up after many years of not visiting a dentist. Truthfully I went because I could feel a cavity in one of my molars and I was having some minor pain/sensitivity. Anyway I had an x-ray and it turns out that the cavity is quite deep and close enough to the nerve of the tooth. A root canal or extraction were the offered treatments, but the dentist did say that as I had no infection then treatment was not urgent.

    I have decided that a root canal is the only option for me (and probably a crown) and I'm in the process of saving up for the procedures. I was just wondering if anybody knew how long I can wait without risking infection. I'm aware it is not easy to tell without actually seeing the x-ray but could anybody advise on the rate of decay of a cavity (i.e I'm trying to figure out how long before it hits the nerve)? I can get the procedure done next month if I borrow or I can wait a little longer and save up the money from my wages.

    I know its a bit of an impossible question but any advise would be greatly received. Thanks.


Comments

  • #2
    georgieporgy
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,927 ✭✭✭georgieporgy


    the pain will change from minor to severe when it gets infected. This can happen quite suddenly, although you may get a few days notice of a slight change in symptoms.

    It's easier ( = better) to do root canal prior to infection setting in. If the dentist is able to fit you in at short notice it is probably safe to wait a bit but it is a gamble.


  • #3
    btkm8unsl0w5r4
    Closed Accounts Posts: 9,535 ✭✭✭btkm8unsl0w5r4


    Even get the first stage of the root canal done now and schedule the final filling of the root canal in a month or two. Teeth are devils and know when you are on holiday or its a bank holiday weekend and act up then. Better safe than sorry.


  • #4
    Choc Affair
    Closed Accounts Posts: 54 ✭✭Choc Affair


    you should really get the first stage done asap!!! takes about half hour to do and you can relax knowing the nerve is out and tooth will be trouble free. tooth can be finished 6-8weeks later


  • #5
    jv2000
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 286 ✭✭jv2000


    Thanks all for the very useful advise. Yes I will try to get it done within the next couple of weeks (perhaps next week). Don't want it to flare up while I'm on my holidays. Never had the procedure done before so I just wasn't sure of the ins and outs regarding infection etc.


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