My daughter had her retainer removed. She’d been in it for a couple of years after braces. in the process of removing it, one of her teeth was damaged. It’s now turning gray and is sensitive when she bites down. I took her back to the dentist and he “thinks” it might need a root canal treatment. The x-ray looked okay but she failed a cold test. He wants us to go see an endodontist to have the root canal done. I’m a little concerned here. Does it really need a root canal treatment if the dentist isn’t certain? I don’t want put her through an unnecessary procedure. I am also wondering if it does need that treatment, should he pay for part of it? The tooth was fine before he damaged it.
Margaret
Dear Margaret,
I’m having serious doubts about the quality of your dentist. It may be time to look for a new family dentist in your area. As to your daughter’s issue, I’m assuming this was a permanent retainer that was being removed, but even then, it should have been a fairly simple process for him to remove that without causing any damage. Because he caused the damage then he is responsible to pay for the repair.
If the tooth is turning gray, has sensitivity to biting and cold, that is a clear indication the tooth is dead or dying and needs a root canal treatment. My recommendation is you see the endodontist and get his or her opinion. You are not limited to the endodontist he picks. If you’d rather see another one, you are within your rights and he would still be responsible for the payment.
This blog is brought to you by Parma Ridge Dentist Dr. Gecovich.