Imagine sitting in your dentist’s chair, hoping a root canal therapy will save your tooth, only to discover weeks or months later that the procedure didn’t work as expected.
Unfortunately, sometimes a root canal treatment doesn’t succeed as planned, resulting in a root canal failure.
In this blog, we will explain what causes a failed root canal, signs to watch for and how to prevent root canal complications.
A failed root canal can happen weeks, days or even years after the procedure. It can occur if the infected tissue and bacteria are not fully eliminated, if there is a poor seal on the restoration, or if there is an undetected crack in the tooth.
What is a Failed Root Canal?
A failed root canal occurs when the original root canal treatment doesn’t fully eliminate the infected tissue or fails to maintain a proper seal to prevent further issues.
A successful procedure should remove the infected pulp, clean and disinfect the canals, and provide a protective seal to maintain the integrity of the tooth.
When these steps aren’t entirely successful, the tooth remains vulnerable to infection, decay, or eventually tooth loss.
Common Causes of a Failed Root Canal Therapy
Several factors can contribute to the failure of canal therapy.
Here are the most common reasons.
- Incomplete removal of infection: The root system has a complex anatomy, with multiple narrow or hidden canals that can be difficult to access. If even a small section of infected pulp remains, it can cause persistent infection and ongoing dental issues.
- Bacterial contamination: Sometimes bacteria can enter the canal space due to poor sealing of the restoration, i.e. dental crown. If the crown wasn’t placed and sealed properly, reinfection can occur.
- Undetected crack: An undetected crack will eventually allow bacteria to enter the tooth causing it to become reinfected.
- Hidden roots: Endodontic treatments aim to clean and seal every part of the canal system, but due to the complex canal anatomy, some roots can be missed. These hidden roots can harbor bacteria that continues to cause issues even after the root canal treatment.
Symptoms of a Failed Root Canal
The success rate of root canal therapy ranges between 80-95% and depends largely on the skill of the dentist and the extent of the infection.
A failed root canal doesn’t always present in the weeks after the procedure. It can take months of even years for an infection to surface!
Here are signs that may indicate a failed root canal:
- Persistent pain: Ongoing tooth pain, especially sharp or throbbing pain. You might feel discomfort that worsens when chewing or applying pressure.
- Swelling and tenderness: Swelling in the gum tissue or a tender area near the affected tooth.
- Foul taste or bad breath: Persistent bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth could result from infected material or bacterial presence in the canal system.
- Gum boils or abscesses: The development of a gum pimple or abscess is often a sign of an underlying infection. This occurs when pus accumulates and forms a pocket near the root of the tooth.
- Sensitivity to temperature: Pain or discomfort when consuming hot or cold beverages may suggest inflammation in the nerve of the tooth.
- Routine Radiographs: Sometimes a failed root canal therapy can be detected during routine radiographic examination.
Diagnosis of a Failed Root Canal
If you suspect a failed root canal, contact your dentist as soon as possible.
A combination of diagnostic tools and clinical evaluations will be used:
- Dental X-rays: X-rays reveal the underlying structures of your teeth and roots. This helps identify hidden canals, infections, cracks, or other abnormalities that could cause canal failure.
- Clinical examination: Your dental professional will visually inspect your tooth, assess gum tissue health and test for sensitivity or discomfort.
- Patient history: Your dental symptoms and past procedures allow the dentist to pinpoint potential causes of the failed canal.
Treatment Options for a Failed Root Canal
When a treatment fails, it’s important to seek prompt treatment to avoid tooth loss and further complications.
Here are the primary treatment options available:
- Endodontic retreatment: The previous canal filling will be removed, and the canal system will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, and then filled with new material. The goal is to eliminate any remaining infected tissue and create a robust seal that prevents future bacterial contamination.
- Tooth extraction: In cases where a failed root canal has resulted in significant damage or infection that cannot be addressed with retreatment, tooth extraction may be necessary. These teeth are often replaced with dental implants.
- Apical surgery (apicoectomy): During this procedure, your endodontist makes an incision in the gum to access the root tip of the tooth. The goal is to remove infected tissue, seal the root tip, and provide a protective barrier to maintain your oral health.
How to Prevent Root Canal Complications
Prevention is always better than treatment, especially in dental health.
Here are some steps you can take to ensure the long-term success of your treatment:
- Choose a skilled endodontist to perform your root canal: An endodontist specializes in diagnosing and treating disease of the dental pulp and conditions that affect the inside of the tooth.
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and use an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Attend regular dental check-ups: Regular visits to your dentist allow for early detection of potential issues and prompt treatment.
- Follow your dentist’s instructions: After your canal procedure, follow your dentist’s advice for care, which may include temporary crowns or specific cleaning routines.
- Protect your teeth from trauma: Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night or engage in sports activities to prevent tooth damage.
Protect Your Teeth with Expert Treatment in Buffalo Grove
Don’t wait for a problem to arise—regular check-ups are essential for catching potential issues early to ensure your teeth stay in great shape.
Our dental team in Buffalo Grove, IL, is here to provide the expert care you deserve for all your dental needs.
Call (847) 215-1511 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form. Our dental office is located at 195 N Arlington Heights Rd Ste 160, Buffalo Grove, IL.
