Is It Possible to Have a Second Root Canal on a Tooth That Has Already Had a Root Canal and a Crown Placed?

Is It Possible to Have a Second Root Canal on a Tooth That Has Already Had a Root Canal and a Crown Placed?

March 1, 2023

Root canal therapy is an endodontic treatment with a high success rate. Most people who have undergone root canal therapy in San Clemente, CA, enjoy successful service for a lifetime. But, others develop new issues with the treated teeth. Continue reading to learn if it is possible to have a second root canal treatment on a tooth with a crown.

Reasons for Root Canal Failure or Complications

The endodontic specialist near you will do their best during a root canal treatment. However, similar to any other treatment, the procedure can be unsuccessful. Some reasons for root canal failure are highlighted below.

  • The specialist may miss hidden root canals during the initial treatment.
  • Some root canals can be too narrow or calcified to be identified and treated.
  • A new cavity can form in the tooth on the area between the crown and gum line exposing the root canal to reinfection.
  • The tooth may develop a vertical fracture that allows bacteria to infect the tooth.
  • If the period between replacing a temporary crown with a permanent one is too long, an infection may develop.
  • Salivary contamination can occur within the tooth during the restorative procedure.

Is It Possible to Have a Second Root Canal on a Tooth With a Dental Crown?

Yes, it is possible. Root canal failure can occur within a few weeks of the initial procedure or after several years. By this time, the dentist will have already placed a permanent crown on the treated tooth. However, they can perform a second or third root canal.

A root canal on a tooth that has already undergone root canal therapy is known as endodontic retreatment. It is performed similarly to the first one but with a focus on the cause of the complications. The dentist will remove the crown and filling materials in the canals and perform the treatment. After retreatment, they will return the crown on the tooth.

Signs That You Need a Second Root Canal

If you have an unsuccessful root canal, you will experience signs similar to the original ones. The symptoms below signify that you may need endodontic retreatment.

  1. Swelling

Swelling occurs following a new infection in your tooth roots. It may be limited to the tissues near your tooth or extend to the face and neck. The swollen area will be tender to the touch and may have some lesions. In addition, you may have pus, bad taste, and odor from the gums.

  1. Tooth sensitivity.

Sensitivity to hot or cold things does not usually occur when you have failed endodontic work. It is because the endodontic specialist near you removes the nerves inside the tooth during treatment. However, you will experience sensitivity if the specialist overlooks a canal during treatment.

  1. Persistent or renewed discomfort

You may notice slight tenderness or severe pain when you bite, chew, or tap the tooth. The pain can signify inflammation in the tissues around the roots of your tooth. It may occur due to reinfection inside the tooth.

If you notice the symptoms above, you should contact the dentist near you immediately. The specialist will schedule an appointment based on the level of urgency. Do not ignore the signs, as the infection may spread. Contact our emergency dentistry team at Seascape Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry- San Clemente.

How Is the Second Root Canal Performed on a Tooth With a Crown?

The dentist will begin the endodontic retreatment by taking a 3D x-ray of the tooth, known as a CBCT. It allows the specialist to view the tooth from all angles and diagnose the cause of treatment failure. The results will determine the treatment plan for your endodontic retreatment.

Next, they will remove the crown and contents of the canals, such as filling materials. The next step of treatment will depend on the problem found. For example, if any canals were initially missed, they will be treated. However, if you have a fracture, the tooth will be extracted.

If you have cavities or infections, they will be treated. The specialist will disinfect the area and place an antibacterial paste inside the tooth. They may clean it right away or wait for a few weeks for the infection to clear. Once the issues are addressed, the dentist will fill the tooth and restore the crown.

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