What to Do When a Root Canal Fails Twice

A root canal is a common dental procedure that can save a tooth from extraction. It is a successful procedure with a success rate of 95% or more, depending on the dentist's experience. However, sometimes the procedure fails and the tooth becomes infected again. In this case, a second root canal may be necessary.

When a root canal fails, it can be due to various causes. A new cavity may develop in the tooth and expose the root canal to recontamination with bacteria. The restoration that was placed on or near the tooth after the endodontic treatment was completed can break and create microfuges of bacteria in the canals, which can cause recontamination. It is also possible for a person to go through two or more root canals for the same tooth due to various causes, one of which is that the tooth has two roots.

It can be difficult for the dentist to identify all the canals in a tooth, since a tooth may have very small canals or be calcified. It can take weeks, months, or even years before a failed root canal comes to the surface. You may recognize symptoms of infection, such as tooth discoloration, pimples on your gums, or swelling, because you've already had endodontic treatment once. Late root canal rejection or treatment causes the bacterial infection to spread throughout the bloodstream, so visit nearby dental offices to check for these symptoms. Whether a second root canal is better than a dental implant depends on why your root canal failed in the first place. If it failed because the root of the tooth broke during the procedure, then your tooth cannot be restored with a root canal and you have no choice but to remove and place it.

If your dentist simply didn't fully clean the tooth, especially if a root was missing, a second root can be expected to be successful. It is possible for your dentist to repeat endodontic treatment on a tooth two or more times. However, subsequent root canal treatments do not always make sense. With proper care, even teeth that have undergone endodontic treatment can last a lifetime. However, sometimes, a tooth that has been treated doesn't heal properly and can become sore or sick months or even years after treatment. If your tooth doesn't heal or develops new problems, you have a second chance.

An additional procedure can aid healing and save your tooth. If you feel pain or discomfort in a previously treated tooth, talk to an endodontist about the possibility of re-treating it. Even if you're still trusting your dentist (and they're not referring you to a specialist, which might also be appropriate), it's a good idea to get a second opinion on the condition of your tooth and if a dental implant or endodontic treatment is the best follow-up. Another factor to consider is whether your tooth is still in the good shape it was when you had your first root canal. While root canals are common and have a high success rate, any dental procedure has a risk of complications. Endodontic treatment is commonly known as an endodontic procedure and is performed by dentists in Phoenix, AZ to treat an infection in the center of a tooth to save it and prevent its extraction. The need for additional endodontics may arise within a few weeks of the first procedure or even after many years.

Although high-angle ducts are rare, when they exist, they increase the likelihood that a repeat endodontic procedure will be needed. If there's no way to remedy the situation after experiencing a failed root canal, extraction and a dental implant might be the best option. If you're not comfortable with your dentist's skill level, you can seek a second opinion from an expert in root canal treatment. After considering all factors involved in deciding whether to go through with another root canal or opt for an implant instead, make sure you choose what's best for you and your oral health.