After getting a root canal to fix a decayed tooth, you would normally expect no pain. But what if the pain comes back after several years?
It’s possible for a tooth that had a root canal to start hurting again, even after years. In this blog, we will uncover the reasons why this happens and what you can do to restore your tooth.
Reasons for Pain Years After a Root Canal
Here are some common reasons why you might experience pain in a root canal-treated tooth after years:
- Root Canal Failure
If the tooth’s canals weren’t fully cleaned during the first treatment, bacteria can remain and cause reinfection. This is common in teeth with curved or complex canals. - Cracked Tooth
A crack in the treated tooth, often under a crown or filling, can let bacteria in and cause pain or infection. A crack may require retreatment or even extraction. - Tooth Decay
Even after a root canal, the tooth can still decay if you don’t take care of it. Decay around the crown or filling can lead to pain. - Bite Issues
If your bite is uneven, it can put stress on the tooth, causing pain and inflammation after years of treatment. - Residual Inflammation
Sometimes, inflammation from the original infection can stay or return, causing pain in the surrounding area. - New Infection
A new infection can happen near the treated tooth, especially due to gum disease or other dental problems.
Symptoms Indicating Problem In Your Root Canal-Treated Tooth
Below are some common signs that indicate a problem with your root canal-treated tooth, even after years:
- Persistent pain and pressure
- Swollen gums
- Extreme sensitivity
- Pain when biting down
- Difficulty chewing or opening mouth
- Low-grade fever
- Foul odor
- Inflammation around the area
Treatment Options for Infected Root Canal Tooth
Several treatment options can fix the issue if your root canal-treated tooth starts hurting years later, such as:
- Endodontic Retreatment
In this procedure, the endodontist reopens the tooth, removes the old filling material, thoroughly cleans and disinfects the canals, and reseals them. This can help resolve any lingering infection and restore the tooth. - Apicoectomy (Root-End Surgery)
If a root canal retreatment isn’t possible, surgery may be necessary. An apicoectomy involves removing the infected tissue at the tip of the root and sealing the area to prevent further infection. - Tooth Extraction
Extraction may be the only option when a tooth cannot be saved through retreatment or surgery. After removal, a dental implant or other replacement options can restore function and appearance.
What Should You Do Next?
If your root canal-treated tooth causes you extreme pain and discomfort, make sure to visit a dentist on an immediate basis. A professional will help identify the right cause and provide timely treatment to restore
your tooth’s function.
Early intervention is key to preventing severe infections or abscesses.
Overall Insights
If your root canal-treated tooth is hurting again after many years, it could be due to several reasons, like a root canal failure, new infection, decay, or a crack in the tooth. Some common symptoms include persistent pain, swelling, inflammation, bad breath, difficulty chewing, and low-grade fever.
If you suspect similar signs, visit our expert dentist, Dr. Kirolls Ibrahim, at Céline Dental Cosmetic Dentistry & Orthodontics for prompt diagnosis and care options. Book an appointment at (281) 262-2332.