Root Canal Possible? (teeth, mouthwash, hurt, dentist)

[STP554987]

[SIZE=3]Hello,[/SIZE]
[SIZE=3]After moving to a new area, I had not been to the dentist in probably about 8 years. When I went to the family recommended dentist, they did a thorough cleaning and told me I had nothing to worry about, but of course not to wait so long in the future between visits. It turned out that I had two cavities, one on the top and one on the bottom. I was told they were minor and x-rays were taken. As I returned for the 2nd appointment to get the fillings done, the prices increased and I was told they were worse than originally thought and the price for each one almost doubled. I had the fillings done. The first one went off without trouble while the 2nd one (the bottom tooth) was a disaster. I was numbed about 6 or 7 times and towards the end could still feel the drilling. She told me the tooth was a deep cavity and that there was “some decay.” I had to back away from the dentist several times in fear because of the pain. Eventually she was satisfied with the filling and I left. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=3]I told myself I wouldn’t wait so long in the future to see a dentist for a routine check. Several months later, I noticed a small chip in the same bottom tooth. I would describe it as more of a chip than a crack. It does not go to the bottom of the tooth and has not reached the gum. I do not remember when it happened and conclude that it must have occurred in my sleep. The only reason I even know it is there is because I have a tendency to examine my teeth constantly. If I did not look at my teeth often, I might not know it was there. I saw it simply from examining my teeth myself and now look at it constantly.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=3]The chip itself is small and is on the side of the tooth rather than at the top where the filling was done. I must add the tooth does not hurt in any way. There is no discomfort, pressure, or sensitivity. I can brush the tooth, eat on it, and even put pressure on it without feeling a thing. The chip has not gotten any worse and has been that way for a few months. I have an appointment with what seems like a great dentist (a different one of course) next week and am hoping they can fill the chip or do something that will not require a ton of work. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=3]The reason for my post is that I fear (absolutely fear) a root canal and crown at this point. I know it is almost impossible to give advice without an x-ray or photograph. However, I was just wondering what people’s experiences have been and what they thought would be the result of this based on their best guess. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=3]Since noticing the chip, I have worked extra hard to keep it clean. I now use a waterpik and electric toothbrush. I also manually floss and brush, and use mouthwash every night. I even sleep with a mouth guard believing I chipped the tooth at night in my sleep by grinding it. I also try not to even eat on that side to not further aggravate things. Any help would be appreciated and thank you. [/SIZE]