Hi sir, i noticed a small hole in my gum on the right side of my jaw i do not have pain but when i consume cold or hot food it jitters.I am 21 year old i went to the dentist yesterday he just looked at the cavity for just 2 seconds not more than that. He said i have to under go a root canal treatment so i have to visit him 4 to 5 sessions and each visit will cost me Rs.600.He also suggested me to have a white cap or a metal cap.Please let me know is it a serious problem because i do not have pus or pain.I just wanted to know that is root canal ok for me at this age and i am very upset because many whom i know told that the root canal treatment will last only 3 years and i have to undergo the same treatment every 3 years. Any alternative please -- something that can solve the problem without root canaling let me know..
Root canal is usually performed when the cavity reaches till the innermost layer of the tooth and affects the vitality of the tooth. I will advise that you get a second opinion from another dentist to confirm that the decay is extensive enough for a root canal. If you really do need a root canal, then unfortunately there is no other alternative. It is not true that it will last only 3 years. Many factors affect the success of a root canal procedure. If you have enough remaining tooth structure and if the procedure is performed properly, the root canal can last many years.