I recently had a root-canal done on tooth #31 (a molar). The insurance is covering the root-canal process but not the crown. I had to get the root-canal, I had no choice. How long can I go without getting the crown? The crown is very expensive and my insurance is maxed out for the year. The dentist recommended no more than 2 months. Can I push this longer? My insurance will cover the process until after October 1, 2009 (7 months from now).
Disclaimer: The information in this website should not be used as a substitute for the care and advice of your personal dentist or another physician.
#1 by murigeni on February 22, 2010 - 5:24 pm
The sooner the better, but you should be able to wait the 7 months. The problem may be that there is a lot of filling and not much tooth left, and that the fillings there are old. Even if the tooth breaks it won’t be the end of the world, you have already had the root canal. I’ve got a broken molar right now that I’m not having crowned. It hasn’t had a root canal, but it doesn’t hurt and no new decay. Sure my dentist would like me to have it crowned but it’s not imperative at the moment.
#2 by Teresa K on February 22, 2010 - 9:06 pm
Talk to the Dentist, and see if he can place a permanent filling in the tooth, I don’t think you can wait the 7 months. Without the crown, the tooth can break, and sometimes you may need a retreat on the tooth, which is the same price as the original rct. Maybe they can put on a payment plan.
Also, check the local universities near you, and see if they have a Dental program, sometimes you can obtain reduced rates by Dental students.
#3 by pinkhott on February 23, 2010 - 2:49 am
2 months 3-3 1/2 is pushing it really good