Q. Why did my lower root canal treated molar tooth break?

Hi doctor,

I am a 33-year-old woman with quite healthy teeth in general. I still have all my natural teeth, including wisdom teeth.

Last week my lower molar broke down, and I had a root canal done on that tooth four years ago.

My dentist prepared it for a new crown last Wednesday but did not fit a temporary crown to secure that tooth, saying it is not needed because it is too delicate and would not be suitable. Also, I was afraid about neighboring teeth, so I asked if they would be fine and not move during the waiting time for the permanent crown. He replied that they would be fine because it takes months for teeth to shift.

After that preparation visit, I noticed that my neighboring teeth shifted the next day slightly. So I took photos and measured the distance between them every day. I can even feel the difference by checking with my tongue, and the space is getting tighter.

I have been really careful with my teeth since the last visit. I eat only blended food and avoid chewing on that side.

I am stressed now that my dentist did a bad job and left me with unsecured teeth, and if the permanent crown comes, it will not fit for sure.

Did my dentist do the right thing by leaving me without a temporary crown? Should I change dentist and finish that crown somewhere else, or should I stay because other dentists would not be able to make a crown without the original impression? Please tell me.