Reasons why there is more than one root canal on the same tooth can vary, but it is often due to narrow or calcified canals that were not noticed during the first procedure. This means that there is an additional physical root of the affected tooth that must be treated with a root canal. The dentist may repeat endodontic treatment on a tooth two or more times if the initial procedure does not heal properly due to salivary contamination or other reasons. It is also possible that the tooth has been damaged during the first procedure or due to a secondary infection, making it unable to be restored with a second root canal.
In order to perform a second root canal, the dentist must have access to the pulp chamber and root canals, which he will clean before removing the infected pulp with specialized instruments. Occasionally, molars have a fourth channel that goes downward or are crooked and at angles that make it difficult for a dentist to fully clean the pulp. An additional endodontic treatment, called retreatment (a second endodontic procedure), can be performed, which could also allow the patient to keep their tooth for life. At that time, the patient returns and the root canals are once again filled with endodontic filling material and a restorative crown is placed on top of the tooth.
Whether a second root canal is better than a dental implant depends on why the root canal failed in the first place. If there is an obstruction in the teeth, such as a filling or other tooth, that prevents the dentist from fully performing the procedure, it can result in a failed root canal. If you see any of the symptoms listed above, it's likely that you need to seek treatment as soon as possible. In conclusion, if your initial root canal fails due to salivary contamination or other reasons, your dentist may recommend a second root canal in order to save your tooth for life.
It is important to note that if there is an obstruction in your teeth that prevents your dentist from fully performing the procedure, it can result in a failed root canal. If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it's likely that you need to seek treatment as soon as possible.
