Last November, my dentist filled a top left molar tooth with a composite filling. Since that time, my tooth has been sensitive to anything cold that I eat or drink. My dentist said the tooth had a deep cavity, so she put a temporary crown on it. My tooth is still sensitive, so my dentist will order a final crown when I approve. I’m saving for the crown. However, I’m beginning to wonder if I should ask another dentist to try a new filling first. Why would I need a crown anyway? Thanks. Konnor
Konnor,
We are unsure whether your dentist performed a procedure on your tooth before placing a temporary crown. However, lingering sensitivity in a composite or amalgam (“silver”) filling usually means bacteria have reached the pulp of the tooth. If your body’s defenses don’t eliminate the bacteria, you will need root canal treatment.
Root canal therapy treats an infected tooth
Did your dentist place a temporary crown on the tooth as a solution to sensitivity? Did an X-ray show that your tooth was cracked? Did your dentist perform root canal treatment? If your dentist performed root canal treatment, it’s too late for a new filling.
Your dentist prepared your tooth for a dental crown, which required shaving it to ensure a proper fit. When a tooth is already sensitive, the preparation can increase its sensitivity. Before asking a dentist to replace a filling, ask them to examine your X-ray to see if the tooth is infected or damaged.
David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read about how Dr. Finley and his team strive to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.
