Post RCT infection

[Hixon]

Hi all, hope somebody can help clarify some advice I've received this morning.

September last year I had a 2nd pre-molar RCT and crown, all went fine and no problems until Sunday just gone.

Since Sunday I have had constant nagging pain from the tooth which becomes worse if I touch it, it is also now sensitive to hot and cold.

Suspecting an infection I returned to the Dentist this morning, as it was an emergency appointment I did not see my regular dentist

An X ray was taken and I have been advised that the root canal has been filled properly & that it's rare for a 2nd pre-molar to have more than one canal. As such the conclusion is that there is infection at the tip of the root and that 7 days of Amoxicillin may clear it up.

This leaves me a bit confused though as it was my understanding that if a RCT became reinfected then I need to be looking at either extraction or a second RCT.

I have other health concerns at the moment meaning I'd really rather not take the Amoxicillin as a "try it & see" measure if the outcome is likely to be further treatment or extraction.

Any advice would be greatfully received.

 

[Gordon]

The reasoning here is... sometimes the balance between the body's immune response and any bacteria which are around at the apex of a root treated tooth can swing towards the bacteria. If that happens then it's sometimes possible to redress the balance by using antibiotics.

I think in your case and without seeing the x-rays, the dentist has decided it's worth a try. Whether you follow their advice or not is of course up to you.

 

[Hixon]

Ok, thanks for the clarification Gordon.

I have been a bit run down lately so that makes sense. I will speak to my Dentist again for further advice.