Can a Root Canal Get Infected?

Have you recently had a root canal in Jacksonville and are now experiencing symptoms that point to a re-infection?

It can happen, though it’s rare. Check out this short blog post to learn more:

What Are Root Canals?

Root canals are special procedures used to treat a badly infected tooth or large cavity. It involves removing all decayed tissue and bacteria from the tooth, including its nerves, and reconstructing it with a filling or dental crown.

The procedure helps save a tooth and prevent a permanent extraction. They are usually done in one appointment, but severe infections could require multiple sessions. Moreover, some patients will also need antibiotic therapy for a few days to fight the infection.

How Does a Root Canal Get Infected?

Since it’s a procedure, a root canal cannot get infected, but the tooth it was performed on can.

This usually happens if one of the stages of the initial root canal wasn’t done properly, such as:

• Improper cleaning: Sometimes, the dentist may not remove all the decayed tissue. This usually happens if the tooth has an uncommon structure, such as four canals instead of three or a curved canal.
• Not disinfecting the tooth properly: The decayed tissue is the part of the infection the dentist can see. But once that’s removed, the dentist must use a disinfectant to kill off all remaining traces of bacteria. If they don’t do it properly, bacteria can continue to multiply after the root canal.
• Failed crown or filling: If the tooth isn’t reconstructed properly, harmful bacteria from the mouth may start attacking the tooth again, leading to a re-infection.

A Nearby Tooth May Also Be the Culprit

Pain can radiate, and sometimes it’s difficult for patients to tell exactly which tooth is decayed or infected, especially if they don’t present other symptoms like swelling.

Sometimes, an infected adjacent tooth may cause you to think the root canal failed and lead to reinfection. Either way, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible.

How Is a Root Canal Infection Treated?

A dentist will take an X-ray of the tooth to see the full extent of the damage or if the infection is present in an adjacent tooth.

Then, if the tooth can be saved, they will attempt another root canal to remove the infection. But if the damage is severe, the tooth may require extraction.

How JAX Dental Studios Can Help

If you’re experiencing a bad toothache and swelling and suspect you might be dealing with a root canal infection, see Dr. Charles Poblenz immediately and ask for more help.

Call us at (904) 396-4091 for emergency dental care if your discomfort is extreme. We offer both same-day and weekend appointments that allow you to access care whenever you need it most.

For a regular appointment, schedule your visit to JAX Dental Studios online.