How Often Do You Need to Replace a Root Canal?

Root canal treatments are used to preserve teeth that are extensively damaged or infected. When properly cared for, a tooth treated with a root canal can last a lifetime. 

Even though root canals have a success rate of over 95%, there's a slight chance that your dentist might suggest undergoing the procedure again.

But how often do you need to replace a root canal?

Occasionally, a tooth that has undergone treatment may not heal correctly and could become painful or infected months or even years later. If your tooth doesn't heal as expected or encounters new issues, there's still hope. Another procedure might help promote healing and preserve your tooth.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal treatment is a dental procedure that involves removing the inflamed or infected pulp from inside the tooth. The dentist thoroughly cleans and disinfects your tooth before filling and sealing it.

This treatment aims to eliminate bacteria from the infected root canal, prevent reinfection, and preserve the natural tooth.

So, How Often Do You Need to Replace a Root Canal?

With proper care, a root canal treatment can potentially last a lifetime. However, there's a chance that these teeth might not heal correctly, potentially causing pain or infection months or even years later. 

If this occurs, there is still an opportunity to save the tooth through retreatment. An additional root canal procedure may help reduce dental pain or discomfort and encourage healing. If you believe a previously treated tooth might need retreatment, consult your dentist or endodontist for an evaluation.

Why Would You Need to Replace a Root Canal? 

How often do you need to replace a root canal and why depends mainly on the medical procedure performed the first time and how your tooth has healed afterward. 

Like any dental or medical procedure, there's a chance your tooth may not heal as anticipated after the initial treatment due to several factors, including:

• Narrow or curved canals that were not addressed during the initial procedure.
• Complex canal anatomy that was missed during the first treatment.
• Delays in placing the crown or other restoration after the endodontic treatment.
• The restoration failing to prevent saliva from contaminating the inside of the tooth.

A previously successful root canal treatment can also be compromised by new issues, such as:

• New Decay: If decay develops near the treated tooth, it can expose the previously placed root canal filling to bacteria, potentially leading to a new infection.
• Restoration Damage: If the crown or filling becomes loose or cracked, bacteria may penetrate and infect the interior of the tooth.
• Tooth Damage: If the treated tooth experiences a crack or fracture in its crown or roots, bacteria can reach the inner layers of your tooth and cause an infection.

Signs That a Root Canal Might Need Replacement 

• Ongoing or recurring pain in the treated tooth, which may worsen over time.
• Swelling in the gum or face near the treated tooth, which could indicate an infection.
• Sensitivity or tenderness when touching or chewing with the affected tooth.
• Noticeable discoloration or darkening of the treated tooth.
• Presence of an abscess (a pus-filled pocket) near the tooth, indicating a potential infection.
• Bad taste or odor in the mouth, possibly due to an infection.
• The treated tooth feeling loose or unstable.
• Changes in the gum tissue around the treated tooth, such as redness or swelling.

What to Expect During a Root Canal Replacement 

• During retreatment, an endodontist will reopen your tooth to expose the inner canals and remove the filling materials from the original procedure.
• They will thoroughly examine the tooth for any additional canals or new infections.
• The infection is addressed, and the canals are cleaned, reshaped, and refilled with new materials.
• Finally, the dentist will seal your tooth again with a temporary filling. A more permanent restoration is needed to fully seal and protect the tooth. 
• In some cases, the endodontist may also place the permanent seal to prepare the tooth for a crown, which will be placed by your general dentist.

How to Avoid the Need to Replace a Root Canal 

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene 

Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent cavities.

Regular Dental Check-Ups 

Make sure to visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams. These visits help detect and address potential reinfections in your root canal before they become serious.

Prompt Treatment of Dental Issues 

Take care of cavities, cracked teeth, or other dental problems quickly to prevent them from impacting the pulp.

Protect Teeth from Trauma 

Use a mouthguard during sports or high-risk activities to safeguard your teeth from injury.

Follow Post-Treatment Instructions 

If you've had a root canal, adhere to your dentist's care instructions, including getting a crown if advised.

Address Issues Early 

If you notice symptoms like tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling, consult your dentist right away to avoid complications.

Takeaway 

In answer to "How often do you need to replace a root canal?", remember that while a properly performed root canal can last a lifetime, complications may arise that make retreatment a viable option. 

However, the likelihood of success with each retreatment attempt can decrease, and extraction might eventually become the more practical choice. Regardless of the decision, timely dental care is essential for effectively addressing any issues and maintaining good oral health. 

Make sure that you consult with an experienced dentist before making an informed choice and achieving the best possible outcome for your dental well-being.

Schedule an appointment with the experts at Afroz Burges D.D.S., P.A. Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to learn more about root canal retreatments. 

FAQs 

Is it possible for an old root canal to get reinfected? 

Yes, tooth decay or trauma can enable plaque and bacteria to enter the root canal and cause a reinfection. In such cases, a root canal retreatment can be performed to eliminate the infection.

How will you know that you need to replace a root canal? 

A failed root canal can lead to ongoing tooth sensitivity, particularly when chewing, discoloration of the tooth, or pain and pressure in the previously treated tooth. If you think you need to replace your root canal, it's important to see your dentist to explore the next steps.

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