Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that is performed to save a tooth that has been severely damaged or infected. This treatment involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth and replacing it with a filling material.
Although root canal treatment has a high success rate, there are cases where the treatment fails, and the tooth becomes infected again. Failed root canal treatment can cause a range of symptoms and can be a costly problem to fix. Continue reading to learn about the symptoms of a failed root canal treatment.
Symptoms of Failed Root Canal Treatment
Failed root canal treatment can cause various symptoms that can vary in severity. The symptoms of failed root canal treatment can include:
- Pain and Sensitivity: One of the most common symptoms of failed root canal treatment is pain and sensitivity. The pain can range from mild to severe and can be triggered by hot or cold temperatures or pressure on the tooth.
- Swelling and Inflammation: Swelling and inflammation are common symptoms of failed root canal treatment. These symptoms can be caused by an infection in the tooth or the surrounding tissue and can cause discomfort and difficulty with eating and speaking.
- Discoloration of the Tooth: Discoloration can occur when the root canal treatment fails. The tooth may appear darker than the surrounding teeth or have a gray or brownish hue. This discoloration can be caused by the death of the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels.
- Gum Abscess: A gum abscess is a pus that can form in the gums near the affected tooth. This abscess can be painful and cause swelling and inflammation in the surrounding tissue.
- Recurring Infections: Recurring infections are a sign that the root canal treatment has failed. These infections can be painful and cause further damage to the tooth and surrounding tissue if left untreated.
When Does Root Canal Occur?
Root canal failure can occur due to a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes of root canal failure include:
1. Incomplete Removal of Infected Tissue: If the dentist fails to remove all the infected tissue from the tooth during the root canal procedure, the infection can reoccur and ultimately cause the treatment to fail.
2. Cracked or Fractured Tooth: A tooth that is cracked or fractured can allow bacteria to enter the root canal system, causing the treatment to fail.
3. Leakage of Bacteria: When the filling material used to seal the root canal is not properly applied, bacteria can leak back into the root canal system, leading to a failed root canal treatment.
4. Improper Sealing of the Root Canal: If the root canal is not correctly sealed, bacteria can re-enter the tooth, leading to a failed treatment.
5. Delayed Crown Placement: If the permanent filling or crown is not placed promptly after the root canal procedure, bacteria can re-enter the tooth, causing the treatment to fail.
6. Undetected Additional Canals: Sometimes, additional canals in the tooth can be missed during the root canal procedure, leading to a failed treatment.
Conclusion
It is essential to seek treatment from a qualified and experienced dentist to minimize the risk of root canal failure. Proper diagnosis and attention to detail during the procedure can help ensure the success of the treatment. By understanding the causes of root canal failure, you can take steps to prevent this problem from occurring in the first place. Good oral hygiene practices and regular visits to the dentist can help keep your teeth healthy and minimize the risk of root canal failure.
Your smile is our top priority! Our dentists in Northampton are dedicated to providing you with the best dental care available. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms after a root canal, immediately contact Northampton Dental Specialists Group – previously known as Clayton and Canby Dental. After all, your oral health matters!
