Experiencing discomfort after a root canal? It might be more than just routine healing.
A failed root canal can bring persistent pain, swelling, and sensitivity that make you question if the treatment truly solved the problem. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for a failed root canal can save your smile and ease your discomfort.
Root canals tend to become essential for treating infected teeth that show symptoms needing urgent care. When performed properly, root canals safeguard your tooth from future infections.
However, not every root canal is successful. If you’re facing a failed root canal, the guidance here can help you take steps to preserve your tooth.
What is a Failed Root Canal?
Root canals may not always succeed if the initial procedure doesn’t completely clear the infection or if the tooth becomes infected again. Symptoms of a failed root canal might take weeks, months, or even years to surface.
Without further treatment, the infection can spread to neighboring teeth. Although saving the tooth becomes more challenging over time, promptly consulting your endodontist as soon as you notice a failed root canal can still offer an effective solution.
Causes of a Failed Root Canal
- Traumatic dental injuries: A fracture or crack in the tooth can create an entry point for infection in the root, causing infection in a tooth that has already received a root canal.
- Complex root canal anatomy: Some individuals have intricate root structures, including narrow, curved, or extra canals that might go undetected. If the dentist overlooks or fails to thoroughly clean one of these canals, it can lead to an infection.
- Obstructions: The dentist may encounter obstacles when cleaning the canal, such as nearby teeth, incorrectly placed filling materials, or sealants, which can interfere with the cleaning process.
- Saliva contamination: Saliva fosters bacterial growth in the mouth, and if it contaminates the tooth’s interior during or after treatment, it could cause a secondary infection.
- Dental crown placement: Delaying the placement of a dental crown after completing a root canal may allow time for bacteria to infect the tooth. Additionally, if a crown becomes loose or damaged, it could expose the tooth to new infections.
Symptoms of a Failed Root Canal 
A failed root canal is a serious concern that requires prompt dental attention. Be on the lookout for these symptoms of a failed root canal:
Swelling Following Tooth Treatment
Minor swelling in or near the treated area within the first few days could point to an infection that needs immediate care. Swollen tissues are often sensitive and may even discharge pus.
Lingering Soreness After Root Canal Failure
Persistent soreness a few days after the procedure might indicate an issue. If the pain becomes intense and worsens, this could be a sign of unsuccessful treatment.
Pain & Sensitivity During Root Canal Recovery
Some discomfort is typical during root canal recovery, especially after consuming hot or cold drinks, but persistent pain may suggest complications.
Pus or Blood Discharge From the Gums
If the gums around the treated tooth are releasing pus or blood, this may signal the development of an abscess from a failed root canal. An abscess often causes discomfort and requires a dental evaluation to address any infection.
Persistent Pimples or Boils on the Jaw
A recurring pimple or boil on the jaw might indicate that the body is trying to drain pus from an infection, which could suggest a failed root canal.
Fever and Warm Sensations
A failed root canal might cause warmth around the affected area, sometimes extending to the jaw or face, which is cause for concern. Fevers can also signal infection. If you feel warm and shaky, or if your temperature rises above 100.4°F, contact your dentist right away.
Tooth Discoloration
When the nerve tissue inside a tooth begins to die, the tooth may darken, often turning a brown or bluish color, making it stand out from surrounding teeth. To rule out a failed root canal, it’s essential to get an X-ray from your dentist.
Treatments for a Failed Root Canal
The treatment options for a failed root canal depend on the severity of the infection. Here are a few treatment options that can be used to address a failed root canal.
Root Canal Retreatment
Root canal retreatment involves reopening the tooth, cleaning out any remaining or new infections, and resealing the root canals to protect against further issues, giving the tooth a second chance to heal.
Apicoectomy
An apicoectomy removes the tip of the tooth’s root and any surrounding infected tissue, sealing the area to prevent reinfection. This procedure is often done when standard retreatment isn’t effective.
Extraction
Extraction is the removal of the tooth when other treatments aren’t viable for treating the failed root canal. It eliminates the infection entirely, and the space can later be filled with restorative options like implants or bridges for a natural look and function.
Conclusion
Identifying the symptoms of a failed root canal early on and seeking prompt treatment can help preserve your natural tooth and avoid extended discomfort.
If you notice signs of a failed root canal days, weeks, or even months after your procedure, reach out to your dentist. They may refer you to an endodontist (a root canal specialist) for further assessment and potential retreatment.
Suffering from a Failed Root Canal?
Address your failed root canal by contacting the dentists at Hardy Smiles.
Schedule your consultation today.
FAQs
Do root canals hurt?
Root canals are generally painless due to local anesthesia, though some mild discomfort may be felt afterward as the tooth heals.
Can my dentist perform a root canal retreatment?
Some dentists perform root canal retreatments, but they often refer you to an endodontist for specialized care if complications are involved.
When can symptoms from a failed root canal begin to appear?
Symptoms of a failed root canal can surface anytime, from days to even years after the procedure, depending on the cause of the infection or complications.
