Root canal or extraction?

abdywgn said

Got a tooth that needed a gap filled between the crown and base of tooth. All well and good UNTIL the pain started. I thought maybe that was a response from not using novacaine. Well, no, there is an infection. Okay, got antibiotics going but the end game decision is: do you want a root canal or pull the tooth. Since it's the last tooth on the left, I'm leaning toward pulling it. If the 3 Stooges were in town, they would probably just knock it out. Anybody been in the same spot? What did you do and were you happy with your decision? Thanks!

Click to expand...

Sorry I didn't see this sooner.
(Retired dentist and professor here!)
If it's the last tooth in the arch, especially a molar and needs a root canal; you're probably better off extracting it.
Even with successful root canal and crown, the leverage on the back teeth will make the tooth/roots fracture over time.
When there are other solid supporting teeth around the root canal tooth, it is likely to last longer.
(Disclaimer: That's what I think with the limited info you provided. That's no substitute for a good exam and comprehensive plan.)

I thought i read a comment earlier about a "hot tooth"; infected and painful despite pain meds or anesthetic.
When there is an infection, dental anesthetics will not be as effective as normal.
The infection is an acid envirinment, and counteracts the "Base" chemistry of most local anesthetics.