According to the American Association of Endodontists, a root canal will often last just as long as any other teeth you have if you care for it properly. While many people find that their root canals do last forever, there is a chance that you could have a problem with it. As you prepare for your root canal, you should understand the problems you may encounter with this tooth later on in life. Here are three of the common problems that can occur to a tooth that has undergone a root canal.
Roots can become infected again
A root canal process is completed to clean liquids and infections out of the pulp canals under a tooth. The endodontist performing the procedure will clean these canals thoroughly during the procedure; however, there is always a chance that they may become infected again. This is more likely to happen if:
If the tooth becomes infected after a root canal, you will have to go through another root canal procedure, which is often called a retreatment of the tooth.
Tooth may break
Dentists typically place a dental crown over a tooth that has had a root canal because this procedure requires removing a portion of the tooth. When a portion of a tooth is removed, it weakens the tooth, making it more prone to cracks and fractures.
If you have the choice of getting a crown or not, you should probably get one. With a crown, the tooth will be stronger and it will be protected, and the chance of the tooth cracking is less likely.
If this does happen, the dentist will probably suggest extracting the tooth. You can then have the tooth replaced with a dental implant or bridge.
Tooth can discolor
The third problem you may experience after a root canal is discoloration of the tooth. This can occur if the dentist does not remove all the fillings on the tooth before completing the root canal, or if the dentist does not remove all the infected pulp.
If this happens, a dentist may suggest teeth whitening services to make the tooth whiter, or the dentist could place a veneer or crown over the tooth.
Most root canals will last for many years, but there is always a chance a problem will develop. If you need a root canal or are having problems with one you have already had completed, make an appointment with an endodontist to have the tooth examined.
Share30 January 2015
The average dentist takes many client appointments each day and also deals with emergency situations on a regular basis. Dental emergencies are very common because people are likely to put off having tooth pain fixed until the pain becomes unbearable. Some people have anxiety about dental visits, and others are trying to avoid the expense of dental care. In either case, the end result is often a dental emergency. I have worked as a professional dental hygienist for many years and have seen all types of dental emergencies. I hope that this blog will help people identify potential emergencies before they become too serious and will allow people to know when to get help.
