Will I Regret Not Getting a Tooth Extraction and Dental Implant?

I had a root canal in 2020 without any problems until now. The tooth has hurt on and off for the past month, but now it’s starting to throb. I am afraid that I will need an extraction. Is it worth repeating a root canal, or would I regret not getting an extraction and a dental implant? – Thanks. Elias

Elias

Diagram of root canal therapy for a comparsion of root canal and extraction with a dental implant — Root canal treatment

Root canal failure can be frustrating and painful. It happens when a tooth doesn’t heal completely after a root canal treatment, leading to recurring symptoms. Your symptoms may be the result of root canal failure.

What Causes Root Canal Failure?

A hidden tooth infection or curvy tooth roots can contribute to root canal failure:

Hidden infection: It can be challenging for a dentist to remove all the infection from a tooth’s complex root canals. Even a tiny amount of remaining bacteria can cause problems later.
Curved or branching roots: These can make it hard to reach and clean all areas of the tooth.

What Are the Treatment Options for Root Canal Failure?

The treatment options for root canal failure are retreatment, root canal surgery, or extraction and a dental implant for an unsavable tooth.

Retreatment: A dentist can attempt to clean the infected area and seal it again.
Root canal surgery: A dentist or specialist must access the tip of a tooth near the gumline and through the bone to remove the infection. An endodontist (root canal specialist) typically performs this procedure (apicoectomy).
Extraction for tooth fracture or an unsavable tooth: A crack in the tooth can also lead to pain and infection. Unfortunately, saving a tooth with a severe fracture can be challenging.

See a dentist with extensive root canal treatment experience or an endodontist to discuss your options.

Dr. Thaddeus Michalski, a Rocky Hill, Connecticut dentist sponsors this post.