Had a severe toothache in tooth that was filled 2 years ago. went to dentist and wanted to do a root canal but could not find anything wrong in x ray.

A severe toothache: is the body's way of telling you that the nerve of the tooth is inflamed and damaged. Sometimes this will cause damage to the hard structures of the tooth and the supporting bone that can be seen on an X-ray image, but not always. It is actually easier to treat before this type of damage occurs. Root canal therapy is the correct treatment for your problem. Don't wait until visible damage occurs.

Simple test: Forget the radiograph (xray). Is the tooth vital or non-vital (alive or dead)? If the nerve in the tooth is dead, then you definitely need root canal therapy. Radiographs don't always show that there is a dead nerve, so other tests need to be applied. Have your dentist or an endodontist re-examine this tooth.

Nonvital-rt. canal: When was your last full mouth series of radiographs? If the dentist did not see any problems with the tooth radiographically, could it possibly be referred pain from another area. If the area in question, is the maxillary arch(top teeth), there may be sinus involvement which may not involve the teeth at all. Did the dentist do a percussion test and check for fractures?

Possible: The X-ray is only one defining test to disclose an abnormality or sign. It should be used with a variety of other test to determine the cause or source of problem. I have seen numerous toothaches that did not show anything on X-ray. The problem can be internal and has not damaged root tip or the lesion is hiding behind the root (2 dimensional). Experience can help to differentiate problems.

See an endodontist: Oral infections such as certain chronic abscess or crack teeth syndrome can often be difficult to diagnose and treat. In addition to dental school, endodontists receive 3 more years of advanced education in this kind of diagnosis and treatment. That’s why you should see an endodontist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Good luck.