Hi Jim,

Is this the same tooth we spoke about previously?

Root canal therapy always includes using a harsh and toxic disinfectant. They are called intracanal medicament's. The idea is to kill the nerves and bacteria that come in contact with the chemical. If it's not bleach then it's formocresol or copious amounts of hydrogen peroxide. All of which are very toxic when used in this way, especially if the irrigation is pushed through the apex and goes beyond the root of the tooth into the bone. I know that sounds awful but you like to be well informed and if I don't tell you and something happens, you will be even more upset.

Removing an upper canine can be a bit complicated because the canines are located in the oval area of the arch and are considered the cornerstone of the arch. They kind of hold the arch in an oval or round shape. Leaving that space empty will cause teeth to shift. So it should be replaced with either a 3 unit bridge, an implant or a partial denture.

If you opt to have it extracted, please see an oral surgeon not a general dentist for that procedure.

Bryanna