An infection that reaches the center pulp of the tooth is often caused by bacteria that reside in the mouth. This happens as a result of tooth decay or leaky fillings. In such cases, root canal treatment is performed.

Root canal or endodontic treatment is a technique to deal with the infection present in the tooth. It is a method to save the tooth from falling. It is not a painful procedure as it saves the tooth from complete removal. 

Root canal treatment removes the infected pulp of the tooth which might have resulted due to tooth decay or some other reasons. Root canal infections are very rare but it is possible that the same tooth could get infected even after the treatment.

Reasons for Root Canal Infections

There are a variety of reasons for the tooth to get infected after a root canal is performed. Some of them include: 

• Sometimes the structure of the person’s root canal becomes compromised. Thereby it increases the chance of the infection getting hidden during the first treatment.
• During the root canal treatment, the curved canals in the person’s tooth might not have been disinfected properly.
• Occasionally, the person may have other additional canals that could be lodging bacteria which further affects the tooth.
• The same tooth after the treatment might get subjected to tooth decay.
• If the permanent restoration of the tooth gets delayed after the treatment, some toxic bacteria could reenter the tooth 
• When the tooth either breaks or cracks, the present root canal cavity gets uncovered and microbes could enter, causing illness.
• When a cavity grows bigger, it might reach a deeper level and the previously treated root canal. 

How to Prevent Root Canal Infections?

• Brush and floss the teeth regularly.
• Use a soothing mouthwash after the first few days of root canal treatment.
• Consult your doctor as soon you notice any infection in the treated area.
• Ensure that you visit your dentist for the assessment of the teeth twice a year.

The effective way to get rid of the infection is to treat the infected area. At Sunset Oak Dental, Dr. Volki Felahy provides effective plans to treat dental infections. Call our office at  (+1) 916-435-5111 or visit us at 2161 Sunset Blvd #300, Rocklin, CA 95765.