Do you have a tooth that has been treated with a root canal? Root canal treatment is used to restore a tooth that sustained damage that puts the tooth at risk. In many cases the tooth is saved through root canal treatment and remains in good condition for many years or even a lifetime. But in some cases a root canal can fail, and the tooth may need retreatment or to be extracted.
When this is the case, you may have some noticeable signs of root canal failure. Here’s what to look for and what to do next.
What is a Root Canal?
The root canal is the inner chamber at the center of a tooth. It contains the dental pulp, soft tissue made up of blood vessels and nerves that aid in the tooth’s development. This tissue is susceptible to infection if bacteria makes its way into the root canal.
Root canal treatment is used to prevent or treat an infection of the dental pulp. In cases where a tooth has a crack or a deep cavity, root canal treatment may be done to prevent bacteria from reaching the dental pulp. If the tooth is already infected, a root canal can often treat the infection and save the tooth.
During a root canal the dental pulp is removed through a small hole made in the crown of the tooth. The root canal is thoroughly cleaned out and disinfected, then filled with a replacement material that fortifies the tooth and is resistant to infection. A crown is placed over the tooth for protection.
Signs of Root Canal Problems
If a root canal is beginning to fail, you may notice the following symptoms:
- New pain. If the tooth begins to hurt like it did before your procedure, your tooth may need additional treatment. This indicates that a new infection may have set in.
- Swelling. If your gums are swollen around the tooth, it is a sign of a possible infection inside the tooth. Swollen gums can also be a sign of gum disease. Your dentist or endodontist can identify the source of the problem.
- Sensitivity. Severe sensitivity to cold, heat, or sugar can indicate that the tooth is at risk of root canal failure.
- Pain when chewing. Pain that comes from chewing on the affected tooth can indicate a failed root canal.
- Discoloration. If the tooth begins to look different or discolored, the original procedure may not have been effective.
Can a Tooth Be Retreated After a Root Canal?
A tooth that has already been treated with a root canal can often undergo retreatment with a successful outcome. Endodontic retreatment is essentially a repeat root canal, but with extra care taken to ensure that all of the dental pulp is removed from the tooth and that the root canal is fully disinfected. Advanced technology is used to improve comfort and results.
Who to See for Endodontic Retreatment
If you have a tooth that you suspect is in need of endodontic retreatment, it is best to go to an endodontist. An endodontist is a dental specialist whose expertise is the internal health of teeth, primarily the root canal and dental pulp. Using advanced technology and technique, an endodontist offers the best chance of saving the tooth and preventing the need for future retreatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Endodontic Retreatment
Can endodontic retreatment always save the tooth?
In some cases a tooth can be saved with endodontic retreatment, but not always. If the tooth has sustained too much decay or damage, it may need to be extracted and replaced.
Can the same crown be used again after endodontic retreatment?
In most cases you’ll need a new crown after endodontic retreatment because the shape of the tooth underneath will most likely have changed.
Contact Eagle Endodontics
Do you have any of the above signs of root canal failure? If so, contact us at Eagle Endodontics today to learn more and schedule an appointment.