When Should You Consider Retreatment for a Failed Root Canal?
A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures, used to save a tooth that has become infected or damaged. While root canal treatment is highly effective in treating infection and preserving the tooth, there are instances when the treatment may not fully resolve the issue. In these cases, a root canal retreatment might be necessary.
But when exactly should you consider retreatment for a failed root canal? In this post, we’ll explore the reasons why a root canal may fail, the signs that retreatment is needed, and what you can expect from the process.
Why Does a Root Canal Fail?
While root canal treatment is a reliable solution for saving an infected tooth, it’s not always a guarantee that the problem won’t return. A failed root canal occurs when the infection reappears or complications arise after the procedure. Here are the most common reasons why a root canal might fail:
Incomplete Cleaning of the Tooth’s Pulp
One of the main goals of a root canal is to completely remove the infected pulp from inside the tooth. However, if the entire pulp isn’t thoroughly cleaned, or if some of the infection is left behind, the infection can return. This is especially true for teeth with complex root canal systems or additional canals that may not be easily visible during the initial treatment.
New Infection
After a root canal treatment is completed, the tooth is sealed to prevent bacteria from re-entering. However, if the filling or crown placed over the tooth is damaged or doesn’t fit properly, bacteria can re-enter, causing a new infection.
Fractures or Cracks in the Tooth
A tooth that has been treated with a root canal may still be susceptible to cracks or fractures. These cracks can allow bacteria to re-enter the tooth and cause an infection. Sometimes, a previously undetected crack in the tooth may worsen over time and lead to failure.
Delayed or Inadequate Restoration
After a root canal procedure, it’s important to place a crown or filling over the tooth to protect it. If the tooth isn’t restored properly or in a timely manner, it may be more vulnerable to infection or re-injury.
Problems with the Original Root Canal Filling
If the original root canal filling wasn’t properly sealed or wasn’t the right material, it could allow bacteria to grow in the tooth. This can cause the infection to persist or return, leading to the need for retreatment.
Signs You May Need Root Canal Retreatment
If you’ve had a root canal treatment in the past and are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it might be time to visit an endodontist for retreatment:
Persistent or Recurring Pain
While some discomfort is normal immediately after a root canal procedure, persistent or recurring pain is a clear sign that something isn’t right. This pain may be throbbing, sharp, or constant, especially when chewing or applying pressure to the tooth.
Swelling or Tenderness
Swelling around the treated tooth, particularly if it’s accompanied by tenderness or pain, may indicate an ongoing infection. This could be a sign that the root canal treatment failed to remove all the infection, or that a new infection has developed.
Tooth Discoloration
A tooth that has been treated with a root canal can sometimes become discolored over time. While some discoloration is normal, significant or sudden darkening of the tooth could indicate that the infection has returned or that there’s new damage inside the tooth.
Gum Abscess
A small pimple-like bump on the gums near the treated tooth is known as a gum abscess. This is often a sign of infection, and it may appear several months or even years after the initial root canal treatment. If you notice this, it’s important to consult an endodontist like La Jolla Village Endodontics for an evaluation.
Foul Taste or Odor
A persistent bad taste or odor coming from the treated tooth may indicate a bacterial infection, which could be a sign that your root canal treatment didn’t fully resolve the problem. This is a strong indicator that retreatment is needed to save the tooth.
What to Expect During Root Canal Retreatment
If your root canal treatment has failed and you need retreatment, you’ll undergo a process similar to the original root canal services you received; however, this time it may involve additional steps to address any complications from the previous procedure.
Initial Consultation
During your initial appointment, X-rays will be taken to assess the condition of your tooth and determine the extent of the infection or damage. They will discuss your symptoms and review your dental history to ensure that retreatment is the best option for saving your tooth.
Accessing the Tooth
An endodontist will carefully remove the previous filling or crown to access the interior of the tooth. If there is any decay, it will be cleaned out.
Cleaning the Root Canals
Once the tooth is accessed, any remaining infected tissue and bacteria will be cleaned out. They may need to treat additional canals or address any issues that weren’t properly addressed during the initial treatment.
Filling and Sealing the Tooth
After cleaning the root canals, the empty space will be filled to prevent any further infection. The tooth will then be sealed to keep bacteria from re-entering.
Restoration
After the root canal retreatment is complete, your tooth will be restored with a new filling or crown to protect it and prevent further damage.
Why Choose La Jolla Village Endodontics for Retreatment?
If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or other signs of a failed root canal, don’t ignore the problem. Prompt retreatment by our skilled endodontic team at La Jolla Village Endodontics can save your tooth and likely prevent further complications.
If you think your root canal treatment may have failed, or if you’re experiencing symptoms of infection, give our team a call today as early intervention can make all the difference in preserving your tooth for the long term!