While there are various dental procedures designed to effectively treat our teeth, some do not yield the desired outcomes, leading to significant complications. One such procedure is the root canal.
Dentists perform root canals to remove the pulp and nerve that have been compromised by infection or decay in a tooth. These procedures are often necessary when an infected tooth shows symptoms that require immediate emergency treatment. When done correctly, root canals can protect your tooth from further infections.
However, not all root canal treatments succeed. The information provided here will help you understand failed root canal symptoms and save your tooth.
What is a Failed Root Canal?
Root canals can fail if the initial treatment fails to eliminate all the infections or if the tooth becomes reinfected. It may take weeks, months, or even years for signs of a failed root canal to appear.
If you don’t seek further treatment, the infection could spread to other teeth. While it becomes more difficult to save your tooth, prompt action with your endodontist can still provide a solution.
How Does a Root Canal Fail?
Some reasons behind a failed root canal include:
- Traumatic dental injuries: A fracture or crack in the affected tooth can lead to root infection.
- Root canal anatomy: Some patients may have complex root structures, such as curved or narrow canals, or even additional canals that the dentist did not anticipate. If the dentist fails to identify or properly clean one of these canals, it could result in an infection.
- Obstruction: There may have been obstacles during the dentist’s attempt to clean the affected canal. These obstructions could include another tooth, improperly applied filling material, or sealants.
- Salivary contamination: Saliva can promote bacterial growth in your mouth. If saliva contaminates the inside of your tooth, it may lead to a second infection.
- Dental crown placement: If your dentist delays placing a dental crown once your root canal treatment is complete, this could allow time for an infection to develop. Additionally, if the crown is loose or damaged, it may expose the tooth to further infection.
Failed Root Canal Symptoms
A failed root canal is a serious issue that necessitates an immediate visit to the dentist. Here are several indicators of a failed root canal that you should be aware of:
Swelling After Tooth Treatment
Mild swelling in or around the treated tooth during the first few days can signal an infection that requires prompt attention. Swollen tissue is often tender and sensitive and may produce pus.
Soreness After Failed Root Canal
Experiencing soreness for a few days following an unsuccessful root canal may indicate a problem. If you feel intense pain before worsening, this could suggest a failed treatment.
Pain & Discomfort During Root Canal Recovery
It’s normal to experience some pain and discomfort during the recovery from a root canal, especially after consuming hot or cold beverages.
Pus or Blood Leaking From Gums After Tooth Treatment
If the gums around the treated tooth are leaking pus or blood, it could indicate the onset of an abscess. Discomfort typically accompanies an abscess, making it crucial to have any discharge evaluated.
Maxillary Sinus Infection
In some instances, infections in the back teeth can spread to the maxillary sinus. This may lead to symptoms such as congestion, nasal stuffiness, a runny nose, bad breath, and pain in the jaw and face.
Pimples or Boils on the Jaw
If you notice a persistent pimple or boil on your jaw, it could be a sign that your body is attempting to drain pus from an infection. This may indicate a failed root canal.
Fever & Warmth
Infections can produce other symptoms, even if they don’t lead to pain or swelling.
If your root canal has failed, you might feel warmth around the affected tooth. Any unusual heat, particularly if it extends to your jaw or face, is concerning.
Additionally, fevers are an important infection symptom to watch for. If you feel warm and shaky, or if your temperature exceeds 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, reach out to your dentist’s office immediately. Your fever may also be accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, sweating, or chills.
Tooth Discoloration
Teeth often darken in color when the nerve tissue inside them begins to die. Typically, the tooth may take on a brown or bluish hue, making it noticeably different from the surrounding teeth when you smile. This discoloration cannot be removed through bleaching, but your dentist may be able to perform internal bleaching to lighten the shade of your enamel. To rule out a failed root canal, it’s important to have your dentist conduct an X-ray.
Conclusion
Failed root canals can occur for various reasons, as discussed earlier. However, recognizing and promptly addressing the symptoms can greatly assist in saving your natural tooth and preventing prolonged pain and discomfort.
If you observe symptoms of a failed root canal in the days, weeks, or months following your endodontic procedure, be sure to inform your dentist. Your dentist will likely refer you to an endodontist (a specialist in root canals) for further evaluation and possible retreatment of the tooth.
Are You Suffering from Failed Root Canal Symptoms?
Whether you need treatment for a deep cavity or need to address existing failed root canal symptoms, the team at First Class Smiles in Das Plaines, IL, is here to assist you. Call (847) 264-4152 to book your appointment.
Schedule your consultation today.
FAQs
How soon can symptoms appear after a failed root canal?
Symptoms of a failed root canal can develop weeks, months, or even years after the initial treatment. It’s important to remain vigilant for any changes in your tooth’s condition.
What should I do if I notice symptoms of a failed root canal?
If you notice any symptoms, contact your dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and potentially save your tooth.