Should "leaching" amalgam be removed?

[Clem]

My daughter's dentist recommended that some "old" silver fillings be replaced because they were leaching and discoloring the tooth. There were 4, and they were otherwise in good shape. In the process, they got really close to the nerve on one tooth, and now the tooth is extremely sensitive to bite pressure, cool and warm temps (not cold and hot), etc. They told her she might need a root canal, and it sure sounds like it now. The tooth has not calmed down at all. I'm really ticked at these characters--now she's looking at a RT in a molar that was seemingly OK before. At least $500. Any thoughts? Sue the bastards? OK, maybe not (too many lawyers get rich), but is this good practice? I'm want her to leave that practice and find a new dentist, this is just questionable to me.

 

[brit]

Sorry to hear that. How old is she and were these permanent teeth or baby teeth? Think this might be relevant maybe.

 

[Gordon]

I assume that they replaced the amalgams with composite? Composite is extremely technique sensitive and difficult to do well in back teeth. Redoing the fillings might be an option before going to RCT.

 

[Clem]

She's 23 and these are permanent molars, or at least the sensitive tooth is a molar. They have been replaced with composite. I'm just sad for her to have a root canal at this early age. Assuming it is done correctly (not by this character) will it last her lifetime? Do RC teeth have a shorter lifespan?

 

[Gordon]

Properly done RCTs last for ages, but I would still try replacing the fillings first.