Removing a Tooth with a Root Canal Treatment: What You Need to Know
A root canal treatment does an excellent job of saving a damaged or infected tooth. However, in some unfortunate cases, this treatment may not be successful, and the tooth may still have to be extracted. It leaves many patients with one significant question, “Can you remove a tooth that had a root canal?” The answer is yes, and in this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about having a tooth with previous root canal treatment removed.
Why Would You Need to Remove a Tooth that has had a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment is performed when the tooth’s pulp is infected or inflamed, causing pain or discomfort. Despite its high success rate, some complications may arise that can necessitate tooth extraction. Some of the primary reasons why a tooth that has had root canal treatment may need to be removed include;
- Severe infection: In some cases, the tooth may not respond to the root canal treatment resulting in a re-infection that can damage the roots of your tooth. Removal may be the only option
- Root fracture: The tooth may be weakened by the root canal treatment, making it susceptible to cracking or breaking. A broken tooth that cannot be saved may have to be extracted to prevent further damage
- Extensive damage: If the tooth has extensive tooth decay or is fractured past the point where root canal treatment can save it, extraction may be the only option to prevent further damage to surrounding teeth
What Does the Root Canal Process Involve?
A root canal procedure involves the removal of the tooth’s nerve and pulp, as well as the cleaning and sealing of the tooth’s interior. This procedure can save the tooth and prevent further damage. The process can involve several steps depending on the extent of the damage or infection. The steps include;
- Removing the damaged nerve and pulp
- Cleaning and disinfecting the tooth’s canal
- Filling and sealing the cleaned teeth using a biocompatible material such as rubber compound, the procedure is complete when a crown is placed over the tooth
Can a Tooth with Root Canal Treatment be Extracted?
The short answer is yes. A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can be extracted. After the root canal procedure, the tooth’s nerves and pulp have been removed, and it no longer has any blood supply. This makes the tooth technically dead, making its removal easier than a live tooth. In some cases, the removal of the tooth with previous root canal treatment may require additional procedures such as cutting the gum tissue to extract the roots properly.
What Are the Benefits of Removing a Tooth with Previous Root Canal Treatment?
While root canal procedures can save a tooth for a long time, sometimes it may be necessary to have the tooth removed. Here are some of the benefits of removing a tooth with previous root canal treatment;
- Quick and easy: Since the tooth does not have any nerves, removing it is not painful as removing live teeth
- Prevents reinfection: A tooth with a previous root canal treatment that still requires removal may harbor harmful bacteria that can re-infect other parts of your mouth leading to serious health complications. Extraction removes the tooth and the source of the infection
- Can save adjacent teeth: A tooth that had previous root canal treatment may become weakened by the procedure making it susceptible to crack or break. Extracting the tooth can save other adjacent teeth from damage
What is the Cost of Extracting a Tooth with Previous Root Canal Treatment?
The cost of extracting a tooth with previous root canal treatment can vary depending on the complexity of the extraction. The cost can be higher if additional procedures such as cutting the gum or administering anesthesia are needed. Talk to your dentist beforehand to understand the cost implications of this procedure.
What Are the After-Care Instructions After Extraction?
After tooth extraction, you will be given specific instructions by your dentist. These may include;
- Avoiding certain foods that may cause discomfort or irritate the extraction site
- Limiting physical activity and avoiding strenuous activities for the first few days to avoid dislodging the blood clot
- Maintaining good oral hygiene by gently brushing your teeth and rinsing your mouth with saltwater to promote healing and prevent infection
- Applying ice to the affected area to help reduce swelling and discomfort
When is the Best Time to Remove a Tooth with Previous Root Canal Treatment?
The best time to remove a tooth with previous root canal treatment varies depending on each case’s unique circumstances. Before deciding to extract the tooth, your dentist will evaluate your dental history, health status, and the condition of your teeth to determine the best course of action. However, if you suspect that your tooth may need to be extracted, it is best to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Conclusion
While root canal treatment is an effective means of preserving a damaged tooth, there are situations where extraction may be necessary. Patients often question whether a tooth with previous root canal treatment can be extracted; the answer is yes. The extraction process of a tooth with previous root canal treatment is quick and easy since the tooth no longer has any nerves. If you have any concerns about your tooth’s health or the root canal process, talk to your dentist before making any decisions.
Most Commonly Asked Questions and Answers
- Can a tooth with previous root canal treatment be extracted?
- Yes, a tooth with previous root canal treatment can be extracted
- Why would you need to extract a tooth with a previous root canal treatment?
- There are various reasons why a tooth with a previous root canal treatment may need to be extracted, such as severe infection, root fracture, or extensive damage that cannot be repaired through root canal therapy
- What is the root canal process, and what does it involve?
- Root canal treatment involves the removal of the tooth’s nerve and pulp, cleaning of the tooth canal, and filling and sealing the tooth using biocompatible materials such as rubber compound. A crown is then placed over the tooth to restore its function and appearance
- What are the benefits of removing a tooth with previous root canal treatment?
- Some of the benefits include quick and easy procedure, prevention of reinfection, and the possibility of saving adjacent teeth from damage
- What is the cost of extracting a tooth with previous root canal treatment?
- The cost varies depending on the complexity of the extraction and any additional procedures required. Patients should talk to their dentist to understand the cost implications
- What are the after-care instructions after extraction?
- After-care instructions can vary depending on each patient’s unique case. Examples include avoiding certain foods, maintaining good oral hygiene, and applying ice to the affected area to reduce swelling and discomfort
References:
- Chambers, A. E. J., & Wilson, N. H. F. (2011). Management of teeth with failed endodontic treatment. Dental update, 38(10), 695-696, 699-700.
- Gulabivala, K., Ng, Y. L., & Gilbertson, M. (2010). Efficacy of root canal irrigation procedures: a review. Endodontic topics, 2005, 16-32.
- Whitworth, J. M. (2005). Methods of filling root canals: principles and practices. Endodontic topics, 12(1), 2-24.