Root canal treatment is an important procedure for maintaining oral health and comfort. When infection sets in, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms so that it can be treated promptly and effectively.

In this article, we will discuss the causes, signs, and symptoms of root canal infection, as well as the available treatment options. We hope to provide readers with the knowledge and understanding they need to make informed decisions when it comes to their oral health.

What Is a Root Canal?

Root canal is a procedure that can help remove the infection from the infected tooth and restore it to full health. Root canal treatment protect teeth by removing infected pulp, cleaning the area, and filling the cavity. Symptoms like severe pain, sensitivity, and a loose tooth indicate the need for prompt treatment to contain infection and restore tooth health.

What Are Root Canal Infections?

Root canal infection occurs when the soft tissue inside your tooth (pulp) gets infected despite a root canal procedure. This pulp normally keeps your tooth alive, but root canal removes it to treat infection or damage.

Causes of Root Canal Infection

Here are the 6 main causes of root canal infection:

  1. Untreated Tooth Decay: Severe decay can penetrate the tooth, leading to an infection in the dental pulp.
  2. Cracked or Broken Tooth: Fractures can allow bacteria to enter the inner parts of the tooth.
  3. Failed Root Canal Treatment: Improperly cleaned canals or incomplete treatment can leave residual tissue that leads to infection.
  4. Damaged Dental Crowns or Fillings: A compromised crown or filling can expose the tooth to bacteria.
  5. Delayed Crown Placement: Not placing a permanent crown promptly after a root canal can increase the risk of infection.
  6. Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease can contribute to root canal infections by allowing bacteria to penetrate through diseased gum tissue​.

Signs of Infected Root Canal

Here are the 6 main signs of a infected root canal:

  1. Severe Pain: Intense pain when biting, chewing, or exposure to extreme temperatures.
  2. Tooth Sensitivity: Persistent sensitivity to hot or cold that doesn’t go away after the stimulus is removed.
  3. Swelling and Tenderness: Swelling in the gums, face, or neck, along with tenderness around the treated area.
  4. Discharge: Presence of pus or discharge around the treated tooth, often with a foul taste or odor.
  5. Swollen Lymph Nodes: Tender and swollen lymph nodes around the jaws.
  6. Tooth Discoloration: Darkening of the treated tooth, indicating potential pulp infection​

Diagnosis of a Failed Root Canal

In order to determine whether a root canal treatment is needed, a professional dental assessment is required. Symptoms that may indicate the need for this treatment include sensitive teeth, an unpleasant taste in the mouth, facial swelling, and tooth discolouration. Additionally, a tooth nerve may be damaged, and the connective tissue and internal tissue around the affected tooth may be at risk of infection.

Therefore, it is important to attend regular dentist appointments and take any necessary preventative measures, such as dental filling, to help reduce the risk of infection. If any of the above symptoms are present, it is recommended to seek professional advice from a dentist as soon as possible to accurately diagnose the condition and take any necessary corrective measures.

How Are Root Canal Infections Treated?

Once the diagnosis is made, there are several options for treating an infection and restoring the affected tooth. The most ideal solution is to retain the natural tooth and protect it from further damage. In this case, the dentist must remove the infected soft tissue and nerve endings and fill the deep decay. This will help to prevent further deterioration of the entire tooth.

Some of the common symptoms of an infection that requires treatment may include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, and swelling in the gums.

It is important to understand that the best way to avoid the need for a root canal is to practice good dental care and oral hygiene. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and making regular visits to the dentist for checkups and cleanings. In some cases, the dentist may recommend a temporary filling to help reduce pain and discomfort.

Root canal treatment is a necessary and important step in preserving oral health. When performed properly, it can restore a damaged tooth to its full function and prevent further infection. It is important for patients to be aware of the signs of an infection and to seek prompt treatment from a qualified dentist. With the right treatment, patients are often able to keep their natural teeth for many years.

Key Takeaways

Root canal infection can be difficult to diagnose due to the variety of symptoms. If a patient is experiencing tooth pain and other signs of infection, it is important to seek medical advice from a qualified professional.

Treatment options for root canal infection can range from antibiotics to root canal therapy, depending on the severity of the infection. Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment and the preservation of the tooth.

If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of a root canal infection, don’t hesitate to seek expert medical advice. At Gentle Dental Hawthorn in Hawthorn, VIC, our experienced team of dentists in Hawthorn provides comprehensive care and treatment plans for a wide range of dental issues. Contact us today to arrange an appointment and get the treatment you need.