Many folks envision a root canal as a painful and complicated dental treatment that requires a long period for recovery. However, the procedure is often safe, and the use of anesthesia and pain medication can make it a lot less painful than you might expect. The trick is to have the procedure done by a qualified dentist, to observe proper oral hygiene during and after recovery, and to follow up with your dentist if there are any complications after your root canal.

In order to better prepare you for recovery and identify signs that something might be wrong, read on to learn common causes of root canal failure and the remedial action you can take to prevent them. 

Cracks in the tooth

A crack can sometimes develop on the tooth after the root canal has been performed, providing a space that can be colonized by bacteria. If left untreated, the crack can go deep into the root and cause it to be infected again, requiring another root canal.

To prevent this, be careful not to bite too forcefully with your treated tooth and to always observe good dental hygiene so as to prevent bacteria buildup around the area. If you notice any pain and swelling long after the root has healed, you may have a minute crack on the tooth that should be cleaned and sealed with filling material so as to prevent an infection in the inner tooth and keep the crown capping the tooth stable. 

Deterioration of the seal

Another common cause of root canal failure is the erosion of the seal protecting the inner tooth. Over time, the material placed to seal the pulp may deteriorate and allow food particles and bacteria to leak into the area.

This often leads to constant irritation of the tissue, leading to sensitivity, pain, and possible bleeding. If something doesn't feel right with your treated tooth, do not hesitate to make a dental appointment for examination. Your dentist will likely remove the crown, clean the pulp and reseal the tooth. 

Extensive decay and gum disease

Teeth that have had a root canal are vulnerable to decay just like your other teeth. Extensive decay around the tooth can cause the crown to become wobbly or allow bacteria back into the canals. Gum disease can also attack the supports of your treated tooth, leading to eventual tooth loss.

To keep your teeth safe, be sure to maintain proper hygiene by using oral rinses, flossing, and brushing with fluoride toothpaste. This will help remove plaque in the gum line and on the tooth surface, reducing the chances of gum disease and tooth decay.