As with any health procedure, a root canal may require re-treatment, much to the surprise of many dental patients. While there are numerous causes of an initial root canal failing, patients who require a second root canal often return to their dental professional complaining of immense pain at the location of the original root canal. This pain most often stems from bacteria build up within the tooth root.
While the original tooth was treated, it may have not healed properly, causing it to develop new problems. Most often, a second root canal can encourage healing and often save the tooth. If a primary root canal fails, a patient will require a second root canal, often called “re-treatment”.
Common causes of the initial root canal failing include:
- A patient has an intricate number of canals that exceeds the expected number for a similar tooth, causing bacteria to have been missed during the initial root canal.
- A patient waits too long between the first root canal procedure and getting their restoration placed, allowing bacteria to build up in the canal.
- The restoration placed was not sealed properly, allowing saliva to reenter the canal and re-contaminate the tooth.
- A patient chips or cracks, allowing bacteria to reenter the canal and multiply.
A re-treatment process differs depending on the cause of the initial root canal failing. If a restoration was placed after the initial root canal, the restorative contents will be removed, allowing the doctor to again access the tooth’s roots. In the event that the original tooth or restoration cracked, the natural tooth may require extraction.
When first approached with the idea of re-treatment, some patients are apprehensive. Whether they’re unwilling to endure any more pain or they’re skeptical that re-treatment will solve the problem, most dental professionals will recommend trying to save the natural tooth whenever possible. Should you refuse to undergo re-treatment, your dental professional will discuss alternative treatment methods, dependent upon why the initial root canal failed.
If you’re experiencing pain and have recently undergone a root canal, we recommend contacting your dental professional as soon as possible. Please feel free to contact our office if you have any questions or concerns.