This is probably a stupid question but I simply do not know the answer. I already have a cracked tooth which will need a crown, so with insurance thats still around 150-200. I might also need a root canal or two or three, and if they all need crowns, I wont have the money to pay for them. So do root canals require crowns? Please help. Thanks!

I had a root canal about 2 wks. ago and I didn't have to get it crowned but...it is best to get it crowned.I'm going to have to go back later to get it done....when you have a canal done all you have left is a hollow tooth and after alot of chewing on it,it becomes more worn and easier to break.

I would get root canaled teeth crowned as soon as possibe. I have heard/read about many people's root canalled teeth breaking in half. If this happens, then you'll be in more trouble than ever. You might end up losing the tooth. Debbie

Hi Manzo,

Front teeth with root canals often don't require crowns. Molars/bicuspids definitely do need crowns or onlays. As Deb47 said, get them done ASAP.

Thanks for the replies. Another quick question. When the remainder of the tooth is filled, can it be done with the composite (sp?) material rather than the silver? Thanks!

p.s. what do you all think about the controversial views concerning the potential long term health risks with root canals?

[This message has been edited by manzo (edited 11-19-2002).]

Hi Manzo,

I've posted this info on other parts of this board. I have a real passion to help people learn the truth. You are the first person I've seen who has actually come out and asked what others think about the questions regarding root canal therapy and the long term health risks. Frankly I believe them to be true and very scary. As we know dentistry is not a perfect science. What angers me is that we perhaps have not been being informed with the honest information so we can make decisions based on the truth! Two books and a website come to mind. Dr. Hal Huggins DDS and a medical doctor have written a book called "Uninformed Consent." Dr. Huggins also has a website. The other book that comes to mind is tilted "Root Canal Cover-up." by George E. Meinig. If folks will read what these men have written about the dental profession, the ADA, etc. You shall at least be able to make informed decisions in the future when it comes to treatment.

Until I read this information and did additional research I had no idea that I have been placing trust in several dentists over the years, and I shouldn't have. I have not been told the truth.

I've got to believe that when a dentist who has practised for 33 years came forward with the truth in his book Uninformed Consent, and because he exposed the real truth regarding root canals, mercury amalgam fillings, nickle, cadmium (sp?) and other toxic metals used in dentistry today. The fact he lost his liscense to practise tells me he stepped on the wrong toes. The man speaks from the heart in his writing. He was able to help many people with every disease you can think of, according to him was a result of dental toxicity. Now he is not able to help people anymore. It's very sad when you realise it all comes down to money! The patients health is not the number one priority. And we can't blame all dentists either. This information is not taught in the schools of dentistry of today. Or if a dentist does know the truth he/she might not discuss it with the patient. Why? Fear! They are constantly working in fear of being put on probation or worse, loosing their license. Especially the Mercury Free dentists. Do a search on the net by typing in Dr. Weston Price. He did extensive research back in the 20's with root canal teeth. This information is enough to scare anybody.

I'll get off of my soap box now and just suggest you read the books and website I found recently and suggested above.

Sincerely,

Tenntod

[This message has been edited by Well-come (edited 12-01-2002).]