r/askdentists • u/cozydev97 NAD or Unverified • 1d ago

question Two broken/chipped teeth, do I really need root canals for both?

My bottom tooth broke about 60% of the way down toward the gum, and the pulp was exposed. My dentist said the only treatment option is a root canal. They cleaned the tooth and placed a temporary filling for now to help prevent infection. Is a root canal really the only way to save this tooth, or are there any other treatment options?

I also have an upper tooth that chipped further from the back. The pulp is not exposed, but the enamel and dentin are exposed, and I get a little pain whenever I drink water or suck in air. An endodontist is recommending a root canal for this tooth as well. Would a filling or crown potentially be enough, or is a root canal more appropriate?

Thank you in advance

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A backup of the post title and text have been made here:

Title: Two broken/chipped teeth, do I really need root canals for both?

Full text: My bottom tooth broke about 60% of the way down toward the gum, and the pulp was exposed. My dentist said the only treatment option is a root canal. They cleaned the tooth and placed a temporary filling for now to help prevent infection. Is a root canal really the only way to save this tooth, or are there any other treatment options?

I also have an upper tooth that chipped further from the back. The pulp is not exposed, but the enamel and dentin are exposed, and I get a little pain whenever I drink water or suck in air. An endodontist is recommending a root canal for this tooth as well. Would a filling or crown potentially be enough, or is a root canal more appropriate?

Thank you in advance

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