I had a root canal treatment a little over a year ago and then a dental crown placed. It was a horrible experience. I kept telling the dentist the numbing medicine wasn’t working but he just plowed on. The tooth was fine for a while. Lately, though, it feels weird. I’m guessing I should probably go in and have it looked at, but I will be honest, the last appointment was so horrible I’m not sure I have it in me. Have you heard of a crown feeling odd this long after it was placed?
Marilyn
Dear Marilyn,
There are a couple of things that come to mind when a tooth which had a root canal treatment feels funny. The first is that the root canal treatment could have failed. Even if the dentist does everything correctly it can happen. Though, in your case, it sounds like your dentist could have been in a rush.
A second possibility is there is new decay. There is a possibility something wrangled its way underneath your crown, causing decay on the tooth left underneath. There wouldn’t be pain in the tooth because of the root canal treatment.
Whenever a crown feels off, it needs to be investigated. A crown should always be as unnoticeable. It should completely blend in with your natural teeth. If it doesn’t, something is wrong. Don’t put off getting this looked at. It would be considered urgent dental care.
Dealing with Your Dental Anxiety
I am sorry for the experience you had with your previous dentist. I’m actually going to recommend you see a different dentist. This one is obviously insensitive to what you’re going through. He also doesn’t seem to understand how anxiety can affect the numbing medication. When you’re nervous, your metabolism kicks up, which can burn off your numbing medication.
What you need is a sedation dentist. They can give you something which will relax you. There are two levels of dental sedation that most dentists offer. The first is nitrous oxide. This is a gas and is administered through a nose piece. It is best for mild anxiety and has the additional benefit of you being able to go right back to your day. Once the procedure is over, they’ll switch the gas to pure oxygen and you’ll be back to normal in just a few moments.
If your anxiety is stronger, you may want to look into oral conscious sedation. This is a pill you’ll take before your appointment. When I say it is strong, I mean it. Most people completely sleep through their appointment. It’s only real downside is it is so strong that you’ll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment, as way as stay with you until you are lucid and steady on your feet again.
This blog is brought to you by Libertyville, IL Dentist Dr. David Potts.