Have you developed an ache in your tooth that your dentist already repaired with a root canal? If so, you may need another. It can come as a surprise to learn that your previously mended tooth needs to be fixed a second time, but it can happen months or even years after your previous treatment. If you’re worried that your throbbing tooth may require an additional procedure, keep reading to learn more about it!
What is a Root Canal?
To fully understand why you might need a second root canal, it’s helpful to establish exactly what it is. During this procedure, your dentist will create a small opening in your tooth to clear away any decayed or infected materials before sealing it back up. They will then attach a customized dental crown over the damaged tooth to protect it from sustaining further injury. This restoration is color-matched to your natural grin so that no one can spot the difference. In short, root canals preserve your smile by saving your natural tooth so that it doesn’t require extraction and replacement.
Why Do I Need Another Root Canal?
Sometimes, a tooth won’t heal properly after root canal treatment and develops issues. Circumstances that might lead to another procedure include:
- Additional tooth decay. Bacteria can penetrate your teeth and gums surrounding the already-treated tooth. This can cause a new infection that forms from the inside out.
- Hidden germs. We’ve already established that your dentist cleans out your pearly white during a root canal, but sometimes harmful microbes hide in hard-to-reach narrow canals in your teeth.
- Delayed dental crown. Your tooth has sustained structural damage and will need a dental crown to shield it from further injury. If you had to wait a while before it was placed, you may have developed an infection in the meantime.
- Damaged restoration. If your dental crown cracks or loosens, it can harm the underlying pearly white which can lead to infection.
- Salivary contamination. Your saliva can weaken the bond holding your dental crown in place.
Many people worry that their root canal will be a long, painful process. Fortunately, that’s not the truth. It usually alleviates more discomfort than it causes. Plus, your dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic and can provide sedation options for overly anxious patients.
Even if you’ve already had a root canal performed, if you’ve noticed swollen gums or throbbing around your tooth, then call your dentist. They’ll perform an oral examination and let you know based on their findings whether another is needed.
About the Practice
At Indy Dental Group, a team of experts provide a full array of oral health services to patients of all ages from several convenient locations. They use state-of-the-art technology like digital imaging and an onsite mill to create beautiful, accurate restorations in one day. That means you won’t need a separate appointment to have your dental crown placed. They offer same-day emergency appointments so if you’ve developed a toothache, you don’t have to wait for relief! You’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling our North Meridian location at (317) 846-6125.