There are many things that can cause a root canal problem. A root canal perforation is when a dental instrument accidentally rips an unnatural hole through the tooth into the surrounding gums or bone. Root canals are supposed to be restricted to the inside of a tooth. During the initial penetration into the tooth, a high speed bur could go through the bottom of the chamber (furca) into the bone. Additionally, a root canal file can bore through a root and make its own exit, especially in highly curved roots.

          Part of a root canal file can break and remain stuck inside a canal. Unfortunately, this accident is common and often not preventable. However, every patient who has a file break inside a tooth should be informed of this root canal problem since it decreases the chances of success.

          The tooth or a root could split during a root canal procedure. Dead teeth get very brittle and many of the teeth that root canals are performed on were dead a long time before their root canal procedures were started. With their premature death, they became brittle and a potential root canal problem is that they can crack during the root canal filing process.

          Sodium hypochlorite (bleach) is used to clean and sterilize canals during root canal therapy. Some of the bleach could squirt out into the surrounding bone. Several hours later a patient can be in excruciating pain from this accident but fortunately, this root canal problem usually goes away within a day or two.

          In years past, many holistic dentists were concerned about root canal problems that resulted from unfilled canals. However, technology and materials have advanced to where this is no longer as valid a root canal problem complaint. Ultrasonic cleaners along with antibiotic lubricants usually thoroughly clean and sterilize canals before being filled with hypo-allergenic filling materials.

          Another root canal problem is the failure of a lesion at the root tip to heal after a completed root canal. There are many reasons that this can occur. Sometimes this root canal problem can create problems in the sinuses in the upper jaw bone.

          If you are having dental problems and would like to consult with an Atlanta dentist, please call and make an appointment at 404-874-7428.