A root canal is a tunnel chamber that typically holds the tooth’s nerves, blood, and connective tissue. People normally refer to needing a root canal when they need root canal treatment. This treatment requires a dentist to clear out infected tooth roots and seal off the canal to prevent reoccurring infection throughout the tooth. At times, however, a root canal treatment fails and tooth infection progresses.

How does a root canal treatment fail?
Under normal situations, the long-term success rate for root canal treatment ranges between 80-90% and there is a failure percentage of 10-20%. Although success rates are high, the following are some of the most common causes of root canal treatment failure: 

• Coronal leakage
• Root perforation 
• Additional tooth roots
• Crack in the tooth

How do you know if your root canal treatment failed?
It is typical for patients who have received successful root canal treatments to experience some sensitivity in the gums close to the treated site. Patients whose treatments have failed experience pain and swelling in the affected area longer than about fourteen days, if discomfort persists it is advised to consult your dentist. An x-ray is used to determine if bacteria are still present in the tooth. 

A root canal is viewed as a failure if it ever has to be re-treated or if the tooth ultimately has to be extracted. This can happen many years down the road if the dental restoration does not hold up or under any circumstance, bacteria re-enters the tooth. Patients who keep on seeing their dentist regularly for preventive check-ups have a better chance of catching a failed root canal treatment before experiencing recurring discomfort.
Schedule your appointment with Cypress dentist today and get the treatment on time!