Hi Peter,

Yes, different tooth numbering for different areas of the world. Why?? Who knows.

Okay, so it is imperative to tell the oral surgeon about your chronic long standing sinus issues as I am betting they are related to this tooth... if not the root canaled one next to it as well. Some dentists will not admit the correlation between the sinuses and the teeth. While others laugh at the idea of not connecting the two as they are so intricately related. Medically there is no question about the connection.

Interesting that you mention how your health has changed since you have had some teeth root canaled. That is not uncommon for people to report to their dentist. It is however often neglected by their dentist.... again some make the physical connection while others don't.

I understand that the doctrine is to "save the tooth" .... however, dentists are aware that term does not indicate "cure" the problem. It simply means to "retain" the problem. That is what needs to be conveyed to the patient. Your tooth will remain infected and so will the sinus. The major health concern with an upper tooth that is infected after it has spread to the sinus is that it can also spread to the brain. I know that is scary to think about, but it can and does happen. Again, dentists should convey this fact to their patients.

You also need to be aware that the apico will permanently injure the bone and set up for additional infection in both the bone and the sinus. The bone that is compromised during the apico is not replaceable.

I inform people of the facts that they are often not told by their dentist because after 35 yrs in dentistry I know just how detrimental it can be for the patient to not be properly informed.

I wish you all the best. In spite of what the "typical protocol" is as far as the insurance is concerned..... please think about being your own advocate and be mindful of what I have shared with you so that you can make a wise choice that you feel is in your best interest.

Bryanna