You’ve had your root canal, and life returned to normal for a while. But now, you’re starting to feel that familiar pain creeping back. You might be dealing with sensitivity, swelling, or discomfort again. If that’s the case, your root canal treatment may not be as effective as it should be.
If your root canal treatment no longer feels like it solved the underlying problem, you’re not alone. Understanding the signs of a failing root canal can help you take action before the situation worsens. With years of experience, we know the subtle signs that may indicate something is wrong. At Liv Endodontics, we combine cutting-edge technology and a compassionate approach to help ensure your treatments stand the test of time. We’re committed to putting your comfort and well-being at the forefront of everything we do.
Signs Your Root Canal is Failing
If you got a root canal in the past, there’s a possibility that your dental provider didn’t set you up for long-term comfort. The following are some of the most common signs and symptoms that a past root canal is now failing:
- Pain when biting down on the treated tooth
- After the root canal procedure, similar pain returns
- Severe or persistent pain in the area around your treated tooth
- Swelling in the gums around the treatment site
- Face or neck swelling
- Inflammation, including that spreading to adjacent regions of the oral cavity
- Tenderness in your gums
- Discharge, especially anything that looks bloody or pus-like
- A pocket or abscess filled with pus, which may look like a pimple
- Discoloration, such as a tooth turning brown or gray
If you notice these signs, we encourage you to speak with an endodontist about root canal retreatment as soon as possible. When you work with a provider like Liv Endodontics, you can treat the affected area quickly, preventing additional discomfort or the spread of infection.
Why Do Root Canals Fail?
There are many reasons why a root canal might fail, but one of the most common is a provider’s failure to prepare an area for treatment properly. Cleaning the area too lazily may result in left-behind bacteria. When the root canal is closed off, the trapped bacteria can be challenging to remove.
According to a report from the National Library of Medicine, the following are also potential reasons a root canal might fail:
- Over or under extension of root canal filling
- Poor quality obturation or filling
- Improper physical removal of plaque, tartar, and other debris
- Poorly fitted filling
- Leakage from the top of the tooth into the root canal
Poor practice from a dental provider often leads to root canal failures and the need for retreatment. This puts an unnecessary burden on the many patients who have already done their due diligence and put in effort to take care of dental issues. A provider from Liv Endodontics will be thorough and address your dental needs properly, saving you from more headaches in the long run.
How to Prevent Root Canal Failure
While root canal failure is not generally a patient’s fault, you can take a few steps to mitigate damage from a failing treatment. For instance, we encourage you to attend regular check-ups and dental cleanings with your provider. This will help you learn about potential issues before they worsen and are harder to treat.
You should also practice good oral hygiene daily, such as brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing once daily, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and tobacco use.
Why Choose Liv Endodontics for Your Root Canal Treatment?
At Liv Endodontics, we understand how frustrating and concerning it can be when a root canal doesn’t seem to provide lasting relief. With years of experience and a commitment to cutting-edge technology, we offer expert care beyond just the basics. Our team of highly-trained endodontists is dedicated to providing the highest quality of service, ensuring your comfort every step of the way.
We utilize the latest diagnostic tools like 3-D imaging and EdgePro lasers to ensure precision in your treatment. We always aim to help you regain comfort and confidence with the best possible results. If you’re experiencing signs that your root canal may be failing, don’t wait—call us at (973) 577-6500 or visit our contact form. Let us help you find lasting relief!
