Symptoms of Failed Root Canal Treatment

Failed root canal treatment refers to a situation where the expected healing does not occur during the process of treating tooth root canals. Root canal treatment is a procedure that is usually performed to treat infections in the tooth, protect the tooth and reduce pain. However, sometimes this treatment can be unsuccessful and this can lead to a number of symptoms. These symptoms can include tooth pain, swelling, sensitivity and abscess formation.

In the event of an unsuccessful root canal treatment, the dentist will determine the appropriate treatment methods as a result of the examination and necessary x-ray examinations. The problem is tried to be solved with treatments such as root canal treatment or tooth extraction. Therefore, it is important to consult a dentist when experiencing these symptoms.

Causes of Unsuccessful Root Canal Treatment

The reasons for a failed root canal treatment can be varied. These include incomplete or incorrect diagnosis, insufficient cleaning or shaping of the canals, incomplete filling or inadequate sealing of the canal, anatomical difficulties, poor control and follow-up, and patient factors. 

Factors such as the dentist's failure to initially make the correct diagnosis, incomplete evaluation of the treatment, or failure to follow proper care instructions can lead to a failed root canal treatment. Because every situation is different, in the event of a failed root canal, it is important to consult a dentist to determine the cause of the problem and to create the appropriate treatment plan.

How to recognize a failed root canal treatment

Symptoms of unsuccessful root canal treatment often include various symptoms related to dental problems. These symptoms can be listed as follows:

Pain or Swelling: Pain or swelling in the tooth can be a sign of a failed root canal treatment. If a tooth that was initially healed becomes painful again or if there is swelling of the gums, this may warrant attention.

Sensitivity: If the tooth is more sensitive than usual after treatment, or if the tooth is hypersensitive to hot and cold foods, it may be a sign of a failed root canal treatment.

Acess: The formation of an abscess in the gums or around the teeth may indicate an ongoing infection.

Color Changes:

Bleeding: Bleeding when brushing teeth or applying gentle pressure on the gums can be a sign of problems after root canal treatment.

Bad breath: After a good root canal treatment, bad breath usually disappears. However, in case of unsuccessful treatment, bad breath may persist.

How to Fix a Failed Root Canal Treatment

A failed root canal is usually a situation that can be corrected. The method of treatment may vary depending on the specific situation, but usually the following options can be considered:

Repeated Root Canal Treatment: If the first root canal treatment failed, the dentist may repeat the same root canal treatment. A new cleaning, shaping and filling procedure is applied to control the infection.

Apical Surgery (Apicotomy):

Dental Extraction and Prosthodontics: If unsuccessful root canal treatment cannot be corrected or the condition of the tooth is very bad, tooth extraction may be considered. After tooth extraction, restorative options such as implants, bridges or dentures can be considered to replace the missing tooth.