Hi, I’m looking for advice on whether my tooth can still be restored or if extraction is my only option.
In 2019, I broke a tooth eating an unpopped popcorn kernel and had the adjacent tooth extracted at a student clinic.
Since then, the neighboring tooth has progressively worsened.
As of now 2026:
*The tooth is severely decayed (hollow/deep cavity)
*Pain is chronic but comes and goes
*Some sensitivity to hot/cold (less intense than before)
*I’ve been managing pain with eugenol oil
In 2025, I saw 4 dentists:
Low-cost clinic: basic filling/cleaning only
General dentist: said a root canal could risk nerve damage in my jaw
Another dentist: said that wasn’t accurate, but recommended extraction or a specialist
Endodontist: declined to treat due to the long-term condition of the tooth
I would strongly prefer to keep the tooth if possible.
My questions:
*Is a root canal still a realistic option for a tooth in this condition?
*What factors determine if a tooth is “too far gone” to save?
*Should I seek another endodontist opinion or accept extraction?
Additional info:
*33F, smoker
*I do not drink
*Good daily oral hygiene (other than smoking)
*No soda consumption
*No facial swelling
*lower right molar(31?)
*no infection
Thank you for any guidance.