Dear Dr. Cajulis, when I went to the dentist six months ago, my dentist told me that I needed a filling. I went back today for my routine check-up and cleaning, and now he is telling me that I need a root canal, a post, and a crown! Why do I need a different procedure now as opposed to a filling which was originally diagnosed six months ago?
Your dentist probably diagnosed a root canal and a crown because the decay that he originally saw six months ago has probably gotten deeper. A root canal is often needed when decay has gotten to the nerve of the tooth, causing infection and pain. If your dentist is telling you that you need a root canal, chances are that the decay has gone to the nerve. When a root canal is done, a post and crown is recommended. These procedures are often done in conjunction with a root canal because when a root canal is done, the tooth becomes brittle and can break without the support of a post. A crown also helps to prevent breakage of the tooth when eating.
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