Your Emergency Dentist in Fort Lauderdale Defines Failing Root Canals

It’s a common myth that root canal therapy is a painful experience for patients. However, the pain patients are talking about is often associated with their condition either before the treatment or after, never during. This is because your emergency dentist in Fort Lauderdale numbs the area before performing any step of the treatment.

With this in mind, it’s incredibly important that you visit him if you’re experiencing symptoms of a failed root canal. Failing to do so can put your entire tooth at risk!

What Can Cause a Root Canal to Fail?

A root canal can fail in a few different ways, the most common one being forced trauma to the area. When the inner tooth becomes exposed, which contains the pulp, nerve, and blood vessels, an infection can easily develop. Infections prevent these inner parts from transferring healthy nutrients to and from the tooth.

If an abscess appears underneath the tooth root, root canal therapy will be needed. If your tooth is avulsed (knocked-out), the inner area needs to be cleaned of bacteria before your natural tooth (or implant) can be placed.

While it is rare, previous root canal therapies can fail if leftover bacteria was not removed initially. This can cause the area to become re-infected and therefore require retreatment. The good news is most of these cases don’t happen often.

What are the Symptoms of a Failed Root Canal?

If you know someone who’s recently had root canal therapy, it’s important that they make sure no pain is present after a few days. If they still experience soreness several days after treatment, it could be a sign of an infection. This is considered a dental emergency and requires immediate treatment.

Patients who experience the following symptoms need to see their dentist in Fort Lauderdale right away. They include:

• Gums that are excessively swollen or tender
• Specific teeth that are noticeably darker in color
• White bumps or pimples on gum tissue
• Chronic tooth pain, especially when exposed to hot and cold temperatures
• Extremely uncomfortable chewing

Keep in mind that root canals can still fail without any symptoms, so it’s necessary to visit your dentist regularly. This way, they can confirm no gum disease is present and that all your teeth are growing properly.

How Do I Prevent My Root Canal from Failing?

When it comes to preventing the need for restorative treatments like root canal therapy in the first place, the secret is to practice daily oral care, watch what you eat, and protect your smile when you know you’ll need to.

Take note of the following preventive measures to avoid this emergency:

• Brush twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste
• Floss daily
• Visit your dentist every six months
• Wear a mouthguard while playing contact sports
• Wear a nightguard to curb teeth grinding while sleeping
• Maintain a balanced diet
• Manage your sugar intake

Root canal therapy is meant to save your tooth, not put you in fear. If you’re experiencing failing root canal symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact your emergency dentist in Fort Lauderdale today!

About the Author

Dr. Marc Mingel is an expert at putting patients at ease, regardless of the dental emergency they’re having. Whether you’re a young or old patient with a broken tooth or an oral infection, Dr. Mingel and his team will get your issue treated as soon as possible. To learn more about his emergency services or root canal treatments, contact him through his website.