Root canals regularly save infected or injured teeth from being extracted, and teeth that have undergone these treatments can last for a lifetime. However, there are cases when a tooth does not heal properly or develops new problems after receiving a root canal. Sometimes, new issues can arise months or even years after the tooth was treated. Here’s why your tooth might need a second root canal procedure, which is also called an additional endodontic treatment.
How Does a Root Canal Work?
If the pulp of a tooth has become infected or if it is exposed to the external environment due to the tooth being broken or fractured, a root canal can end the associated toothache, clear away the infected tissue, and restore the tooth to its original shape and size. This is done by removing the infected pulp, sanitizing and sealing the interior chamber of the tooth, and placing a dental crown upon it to protect it and allow it to work normally. This is done using local anesthetics, rendering the process painless.
Why Would a Tooth Need a Second Root Canal?
Just like with any other medical procedure, a tooth may not heal properly or react as intended after receiving a root canal. A few things that can cause this include:
- The interior of the tooth is contaminated with saliva. If the tooth was not adequately cleaned and sealed during the root canal, it can become contaminated with saliva that can cause a new infection.
- Too much time passed between the root canal being completed and the dental crown being placed. Most endodontists agree that a permanent restoration should be placed within a month of receiving a root canal treatment, and going too long with the tooth unprotected can expose it to harmful bacteria.
- There may be infected pulp tissue remaining in the tooth. Sometimes, some pulp can remain undetected during the first root canal because the canals are too narrow.
- A tooth that develops a vertical fracture after a root canal is structurally compromised and no longer fit to remain in the oral cavity.
- The treated tooth develops a new cavity that can recontaminate the root canal with bacteria.
- The dental crown has degraded, exposing the interior of the tooth to harmful bacteria.
While root canals need to be redone sometimes, this is rare. With proper care, a tooth can remain healthy for a lifetime after receiving a root canal.
About the Practice
Sedalia Dental delivers the finest dental care available to the community of Groveport, OH. Led by Drs. Katie and Aaron Carroll, the staff provides effective treatments in a friendly and comfortable office environment. Areas of expertise include general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry. If you are concerned that your root canal needs to be redone, contact the office online or dial (614) 836-2222.