Can a Root Canal Treatment Fail? Causes and Symptoms of Failure
A root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure designed to save an infected or damaged tooth by removing the affected pulp and sealing the root canal. While generally very successful, in some cases, it can fail.
At Dental Artistry, we want you to be informed about the possible causes of root canal failure and the symptoms you should watch for to seek timely care.
🦷 Is Root Canal Failure Common?
Root canal failure is not very common, as the success rate ranges from 90 to 95%. However, certain factors can compromise the outcome, even years after the procedure.
🌟 Common Causes of Root Canal Failure
1. Untreated Additional Canals
Some teeth have extra canals or curved root canals that may be overlooked during the initial treatment.
If one of these canals remains untreated, it can lead to a recurrent infection.
2. Improper Sealing of the Canal
If the filling material does not properly seal the canal, bacteria can enter and cause a new infection.
This can happen if the material degrades over time or is improperly placed.
3. Leakage from a Faulty Restoration
After a root canal, the tooth must be restored with a filling or crown.
If the restoration does not seal properly, it can allow bacteria to infiltrate the treated canal.
4. Fracture or Crack in the Tooth
A tooth treated with a root canal can weaken over time.
A crack or fracture may allow bacteria to penetrate and cause a new infection.
5. Persistent or New Infection
Surrounding tissues may harbor bacteria that are not completely removed during the procedure.
A new infection can also arise from poor oral hygiene or problems in adjacent teeth.
⚠️ Symptoms of Root Canal Failure
If the root canal treatment fails, symptoms may vary from mild to severe and include:
1. Persistent or Recurrent Pain
Often felt as a throbbing or sharp pain that continues even after the initial recovery.
Pain may worsen when chewing or applying pressure.
2. Prolonged Sensitivity
Pain when consuming hot or cold foods, even months after the treatment.
3. Swelling and Abscess
Appearance of a bump on the gum near the treated tooth, possibly draining pus.
Facial swelling or swelling around the affected area.
4. Tooth Discoloration
The treated tooth may darken or turn gray, indicating persistent pulp necrosis.
5. Bad Taste or Odor
An abscess can cause a foul taste or chronic bad breath.
✅ What to Do If You Suspect Root Canal Failure?
If you experience any of these symptoms, visit your dentist as soon as possible.
Treatment Options in Case of Failure:
Retreatment: Cleaning and resealing the canal to eliminate infection.
Apical Surgery (Apicoectomy): Removal of the root tip if the problem persists at the apex.
Tooth Extraction: In severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved.
