Hi GStuttman,

Your dentist recommending removal of this tooth because to try and repair the cavity and replace the crown would only be a temporary measure as the tooth will eventually need to be removed anyway. Also, drilling into a root canaled tooth in injurious to the tooth and also sets off the bacteria residing inside of the tooth. You will eventually end up with an abscess.

Replacement of this tooth may or may not be necessary. It is your last molar on the bottom, so there is no tooth behind it to shift forward. The first molar may shift back a bit or may even become sensitive but no one can determine if that will happen. Regarding chewing ability.... many people have what is called first molar to first molar occlusion and do very well with that. The main concern is with regard to the tooth above it. The upper second molar needs to have a lower tooth to occlude against or it will drift downward into the space below. If this molar is occluding (biting) with your lower first molar then the drifting may not be a concern. Your dentist can tell you what the status is regarding your bite.

Dental implants of course are an option if you want to keep a full dentition of teeth. You have experience with them already so that is not new news for you. What are your thoughts about replacing it as opposed to not?

Bryanna