dental offices closing and not sure what to do

so i'm not really sure what to do, with everything going on a lot of dentists offices are only taking emergency appointments. I had a temp crown put on by my dentist about 3 weeks ago to prep for a new one, a few days later I started to get pain, so I went back to my dentist who referred me to an endodontist to see if I needed a root canal. The next appointment I could get (because literally 1 endodontist on LI takes my dental insurance) was two weeks later. So I had the dentist prescribe motrin and antibiotics to help me through the next few weeks. After two weeks it turns out the pain went away. My dentist said to still see the endodontist to make sure the tooth is ok, and my appointment was supposed to be today but I spoke to the endodontist office and apparently now they are only taking emergency appointments so they cancelled my appointment. I'm supposed to go back to my general dentist to get the permanent crown put on this weekend but I'm not sure what to do at this point. I don't know when I can get to see the endodontist again because I'm sure this virus is going to last a long time... and also I dont' want to be walking around with a temp crown for weeks... so do I risk it and just get the perm crown put on and hope for the best? ughh...

Message edited 3/20/2020 4:58:38 AM.

dental offices closing and not sure what to do

No, imo the endo should have seen you esp since you're set to get your perm crown soon. The amount of money and time it take to get a crown I dont think its wise to have it done without making sure you dont need a root canal. Did you ask your reg DMD. I would call the endo back and tell them your situation if you haven't already or have your DMD call and get you in. GL

Message edited 3/20/2020 4:03:49 PM.

Re: dental offices closing and not sure what to do

Getting a permanent crown is not an emergency. If there is no pain, I would keep the area clean with brushing and mouthwash and/or salt water rinses daily. IF you get pain again, THEN I would contact the endodontist for a visit. That would be considered an emergency visit due to pain. I don't think your dentist should put the permanent crown on until you are cleared by the Endo. because if they do, and you wind up needing the root canal, that crown is a waste and you have to start all over again.

I am in a similar situation with a permanent crown that is coming loose. I purchases temporary cement from CVS in case it falls off and know I can call the dentist if I begin to have pain because of it. In the meantime, I am being careful by the tooth and making sure it keeps clean until I can get into them to have it re cemented properly.