Can a Root Canal Fail?

Needing to get a root canal but heard that they can fail? Yes, it is true that root canal therapy can fail. While this may be a little disheartening for you to hear, understand that the failure rate of root canals is very low. If you currently have a tooth that is in need of treatment, then it could be lost forever. So the more you learn about the root canal process, the more confident you should feel about having the procedure performed.

It is always ideal to save a tooth rather than lose it. This is because good oral health depends on having a full set of teeth.

Information about failed root canals

Signs that a root canal has failed

When a successful root canal is performed, it will take a dental patient about three to four days to recover. The area will remain sensitive over the next seven to ten days or so. When a root canal fails, instead of the area improving over the next few days after treatment has been performed, it will remain painful or even get worse.

Common signs that a root canal has failed:

  • Swelling that will not subside after a couple of days
  • A tenderness that will not go away after three to four days
  • Experiencing pain when biting down or chewing soft foods
  • Seeing a small white bump or a blister near the area
  • The tooth feels loose or looser

Why would root canal therapy fail?

Root canals fail when all of the bacteria is not removed during the actual root canal or reenters the tooth after the root canal has been performed.

Common reasons for root canal failure:

  • The removal of all bacteria inside the damaged tooth was not properly removed
  • The dental filling fell out, which means the tooth is no longer protected
  • The dental crown was not fitted correctly
  • The tooth is now cracked or has further cracked, which means it is no longer protected
  • In time, a root canal can fail when the patient does not provide themselves with the proper oral care, which creates more dental decay

Retreatment options

When a root canal fails, there are retreatment options available. In order for a dentist to determine which treatment a dental patient will need, they will need to fully evaluate the situation.

The most common retreatment option includes redoing the root canal. Another option includes performing a more in-depth root canal procedure, which involves a dentist performing a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can give them access to the root canal through the gums. The last option is to extract the tooth from the mouth and is considered to be the last resort.

Have any questions we can answer for you?

If you are currently in need of a root canal, it is necessary for you to understand all the benefits as well as the drawbacks. While the failure rate of root canals is very low, there is always a possibility. If you have concerns about having a root canal, what we suggest is for you to find a dentist who you feel completely confident in providing you with this dental procedure. You can do this is by asking friends and family who have had a root canal performed for their opinion or by looking at a dentist’s reviews.

Know that our dentists have many years of performing successful root canals, so we invite you to make a consultation appointment so you can ask any questions you may have about the procedure.

Request an appointment here: https://cosmeticdentistrypompanobeach.com or call South Florida Smile Spa, Nicole M. Berger, DDS at (954) 395-2419 for an appointment in our Pompano Beach office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Tips For Finding A Good Invisalign Dentist

Invisalign® clear aligners are a great dental alternative to more traditional teeth-straightening methods such as braces. Many patients find them easier to handle, less painful, less time-consuming, and less embarrassing than having a mouth full of metal. The trick is finding the right dentist who can provide you with optimal clear alignment treatment.To understand what…

How Dental Crowns Can Fix Cracked Teeth

Dental crowns are a reliable and effective tool for restoring damaged teeth. While most people think of dental crowns in relation to root canals, crowns can also restore beauty and function to cracked teeth. If you have fractured a tooth, a dental crown may be the solution you have been looking for.A dental crown sits…

How Dental Crowns Can Save A Damaged Tooth

Dental crowns are remarkable in that they protect the biting surface of damaged teeth and restore their natural shape and size. They are often the last line of defense before the dentist recommends removing a compromised tooth. However, how exactly do dental crowns save a damaged tooth? Read on to learn more.A dental crown, so-named…

When To Consider Getting Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are caps that cover and replace natural tooth structures to restore their shape, function, and appearance. They are a popular restorative treatment that can address various dental issues. By investing in dental crowns, you are not only restoring the look of your smile, but you are also safeguarding the future of your oral…

South Florida Smile Spa, Nicole M. Berger, DDS

Share
Published by
South Florida Smile Spa, Nicole M. Berger, DDS

Recent Posts

Tips for Finding a Good Invisalign Dentist

Invisalign® clear aligners are a great dental alternative to more traditional teeth-straightening methods such as…

4 days ago

How Dental Crowns Can Fix Cracked Teeth

Dental crowns are a reliable and effective tool for restoring damaged teeth. While most people…

4 days ago

How Dental Crowns Can Save a Damaged Tooth

Dental crowns are remarkable in that they protect the biting surface of damaged teeth and…

2 weeks ago

When to Consider Getting Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are caps that cover and replace natural tooth structures to restore their shape,…

3 weeks ago

A Comprehensive Guide to Receiving a Dental Crown

Dental crowns are one of the most popular and effective restorations dentists use to restore…

4 weeks ago

How a Dentist Can Use Botox for Cosmetic Reasons

Botox® is most widely known as a cosmetic treatment that is commonly used to reduce…

1 month ago