Hi doctor,I had a cavity in the tooth. The X-rays show it was small but when the dentist drilled the nerve got exposed and is telling me I need a root canal along with crown. He has put a temporary filling for now. How do I know if I need a root canal for sure?
Hi. If the nerve/pulp of the tooth is exposed, there is no other course of treatment except root canal treatment. You can confirm the same using x-ray, IOPA of the tooth. If no treatment is continued or a permanent filling is placed, the tooth will continue to experience pain. The infection will spread deeper to the root and might even cause an abscess. So, it is very important to continue with the treatment. You can send a picture of x-ray to confirm about the necessity of treatment. For more information consult a dentist online 