My molar (4/7) had a root canal done a few years ago, and now a big piece of it broke, probably 1/4 or 1/3 of the tooth (basically, the "inside wall").

I went to the dentist and he smoothed it out, until it can be taken out. He said that the whole tooth has to go (as broken part reached under the gum line) and an implant be placed. The problem is that implants are extremely expensive. They said it would cost at least $4000 if I'm lucky and it's a "simple one".

So I've been wondering if I can't simply keep the part that is left, for as long as possible. It would be better than having nothing there, considering that an implant, at least for now, is out of the question (no money).

Does anyone knows the problems I can face if I keep it as it is?

Thanks.

Hi setnara,

I am the dental field and can answer your question.

Irrelevant of whether you have symptoms or pain at this time, this tooth is very unhealthy as there is an infection brewing inside of it. So to leave this tooth would mean to end up with an abscess which would most likely occur sooner than you think. An abscessed tooth is a more complicated extraction and it could also mean that you would end up with a bone infection as well.

Even though you cannot afford a dental implant right now, it is not wise or healthy to retain this tooth for any amount of time. Discuss other replacement options with your dentist.

I hope this information was helpful to you. All the best!
Bryanna





QUOTE=setnara2000;999078]My molar (4/7) had a root canal done a few years ago, and now a big piece of it broke, probably 1/4 or 1/3 of the tooth (basically, the "inside wall").

I went to the dentist and he smoothed it out, until it can be taken out. He said that the whole tooth has to go (as broken part reached under the gum line) and an implant be placed. The problem is that implants are extremely expensive. They said it would cost at least $4000 if I'm lucky and it's a "simple one".

So I've been wondering if I can't simply keep the part that is left, for as long as possible. It would be better than having nothing there, considering that an implant, at least for now, is out of the question (no money).

Does anyone knows the problems I can face if I keep it as it is?

Thanks.[/QUOTE]

I just wanted to say I've done extractions both ways on teeth that broke after root canals-before an abscess and after. It's more difficult after. Also, root canalled teeth are super brittle-so the crack will likely get worse.

Can you afford the implant later? I had an implant placed near the front a full year after the extraction wearing a flipper (the plastic fake tooth that pops in and out) the whole time. The implant is doing great now. I've also waited almost 5 years for my second molar to be replaced (so the teeth didnt shift since it was in the back), and I lost almost no bone.

In my experience when you already have a root canal, an abscess comes really fast, so you're better off addressing it as soon as you can.

Socasusie,

THANK YOU for this post!!! )

Bryanna