What Are Common Reasons Root Canals Fail and How Are They Treated?

Root canal failure can occur for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common include:

• Missed or hidden canals that were not fully cleaned during the initial procedure
• Cracked or fractured tooth structure that allows bacteria to reenter
• New decay or leakage around the crown or filling
• Complex root anatomy that makes cleaning difficult
• Delayed or inadequate crown placement
• Persistent infection caused by incomplete cleaning or sealing

At Savannah River Endodontics, Dr. Wheeler uses CBCT 3D imaging to visualize every canal in precise detail. Combined with GentleWave technology, which uses fluid dynamics and sound energy to clean deep within the root system, this approach significantly reduces the chance of reinfection.

A failed root canal often shows warning signs that should not be ignored. Common symptoms include:

• Ongoing or returning pain, especially when chewing
• Swelling or a small bump (fistula) on the gum near the treated tooth
• Sensitivity to temperature or pressure
• Tooth discoloration
• Drainage or a bad taste in the mouth
• Sometimes there are no symptoms at all–it will only appear on the X-ray

If any of these symptoms occur, it is important to schedule an evaluation as soon as possible. CBCT imaging allows Dr. Wheeler to pinpoint the cause of discomfort and design a treatment plan that addresses the problem accurately and efficiently.

Root canal failure is relatively uncommon. According to the American Association of Endodontists, fewer than 10 percent of root canal treatments fail, and many of those can be successfully corrected with retreatment.

At Savannah River Endodontics, advanced cleaning methods, bioactive sealing materials, and GentleWave technology help maximize long-term success. These innovations ensure a more complete disinfection process and create a tight seal that protects the tooth from future infection.

When a root canal fails, several treatment options can restore the tooth depending on its condition and the cause of the issue.

• Root Canal Retreatment: This involves reopening the tooth, removing old materials, cleaning the canals again, and sealing the tooth properly.
• Apicoectomy Surgery: In cases where retreatment is not possible, apicoectomy surgery is used to remove infection near the root tip and seal the area to prevent further bacteria from entering.
• Tooth Extraction and Replacement: If the tooth is too damaged to save, extraction followed by a dental implant or bridge may be recommended.

Dr. Wheeler’s goal is to preserve the natural tooth whenever possible. Each case is evaluated individually to determine the most effective and conservative solution.

Root canal retreatment is a specialized procedure that addresses infection or complications from an earlier root canal. During retreatment, Dr. Wheeler carefully reopens the tooth, removes old filling material, disinfects the canals, and reseals the tooth.

Savannah River Endodontics enhances this process through GentleWave technology. This system uses a combination of sound waves and fluid motion to clean microscopic areas of the root canal that traditional instruments may miss. The result is a more thorough and gentle treatment that helps preserve the natural tooth and reduces discomfort.

An apicoectomy, or root-end surgery, may be recommended when infection persists at the tip of the tooth root or when standard retreatment cannot reach the affected area. During this procedure, Dr. Wheeler removes the inflamed tissue and seals the end of the root to prevent future infection.

With CBCT imaging, the source of infection can be located with pinpoint accuracy, minimizing discomfort and ensuring faster recovery.

If you suspect that your root canal has failed, the most important thing is not to panic. Failed root canals can almost always be corrected when addressed promptly. Here are the steps to take:

• Contact Savannah River Endodontics at 912-737-4114 for an evaluation
• Avoid chewing on the affected tooth
• Keep the mouth clean and avoid extreme temperatures until treatment

Prompt professional attention can prevent the infection from spreading and improve your chances of saving the tooth.

Patients throughout Southeast Georgia trust Savannah River Endodontics for advanced care and compassionate service. Reasons to choose our practice include:

• The only GentleWave provider in Southeast Georgia
• CBCT 3D imaging for detailed and accurate diagnosis
• Bioactive bioceramic materials that promote faster healing and better sealing
• Minimally invasive techniques that preserve natural tooth structure

Empathetic, patient-centered care led by Dr. Ben Wheeler, DMD, MA, BS

Root canal failures are uncommon, but they can happen even under the best circumstances. Fortunately, modern endodontic technology makes it possible to correct these problems effectively and comfortably.

If you suspect your root canal has failed, contact Savannah River Endodontics in Pooler, GA, to schedule a consultation with Dr. Wheeler. 

Sources:

• American Association of Endodontists. “Root Canal Safety and Success.”
• Cleveland Clinic. “Root Canal: What It Is, Procedure, Benefits & Risks.” https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21724-root-canal