March 11, 2022
Look Out For The Top Failed Root Canal Symptoms
By the Premier Dental Esthetics team, led by Dr. Peter S. Young, DDS, MAGD
A root canal involves the removal of the center portion of your teeth, often referred to as the “pulp.” The pulp is made up of connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. The dental procedure is necessary when that portion of your tooth becomes infected, injured, or inflamed. The procedure is highly effective, but it can fail in some cases. Below you will find the most common failed root canal symptoms.
Failed Root Canal Symptoms
Root canals have over a 95% success rate. However, there are some cases where a root canal can fail. If you see any of the following signs of a failed root canal, contact a dental professional immediately.
- Pain: Some pain is normal after a root canal so it’s important to talk with your dentist in Arcadia about how you are feeling. You should experience mild pain for just a few days. If your pain is persistent and lasts beyond the first few days after your procedure, it may be a cause for concern. Pain after the first few days is often caused by inflammation.
- Inflammation is often a sign of an infection so it’s important to get it examined right away.
Swelling: Some swelling is also normal after your root canal procedure. In fact, some patients experience swelling for one to three days post-procedure. Usually over-the-counter medication can help reduce your symptoms. However, swelling beyond the third day is a sign of an infection. This is serious and should be addressed with your dentist immediately. - Discharge: Pus or discharge should not occur, even right after your procedure. If you notice pus or discharge (especially if it’s mixed with blood) after your root canal, it is a cause for concern. Pus and abnormal discharge are often associated with an infection. You need treatment right away if your root canal has failed and there are any lingering signs of infection.
Treatment for a Failed Root Canal
Getting a root canal in Arcadia after a failed root canal is necessary for your dental and overall health. The treatment is essentially the same as the original root canal as the focus is to remove the infected, inflamed, or injured pulp from your tooth. The purpose of a root canal is to remove the bacteria from the inside of your tooth. This is done through drilling a small hole into your tooth and then removing the material inside.
The area is disinfected to ensure there is nothing left behind. When the pulp is removed your tooth is then sealed to ensure nothing can get in or out. If your first root canal failed, a dentist will reopen your tooth to get back in to clean everything out. While nobody wants to have back to back root canals, it is necessary for your health. If you are concerned that you may need a root canal, contact the team at Premier Dental Esthetics.
Benefits of a Root Canal
The risks associated with an untreated root canal can be serious. This is why a root canal is a highly beneficial treatment as it preserves your natural tooth and improves your oral health. There are a number of benefits to a root canal including the prevention of tooth loss, infecting neighboring teeth, and it prevents jaw bone degeneration.
The procedure is also cost-effective and can help save you on future dental bills. Failing to get a root canal can result in a number of dental issues later on. A root canal can preserve your natural tooth, but if left untreated, you may need tooth extraction and a tooth replacement. If you are concerned you may need a root canal, contact a dental professional immediately.

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What our patients say
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“Dr. Peter Young is an amazing dentist with his patient's well being at the forefront. He's very knowledgable in the dental field and is always on the lookout of how he can continue to improve the lives of his patients. The facility is beautiful and immediately alleviated my fears of the dentist. The staff is the icing on top of the cake.”
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Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Can’t find your answer? Ask our virtual assistant in the corner, or call our front desk.
Does a root canal hurt?
Root canal treatment is performed with local anesthetic and is typically about as comfortable as getting a filling. It relieves the pain caused by an infected or inflamed tooth nerve.
What are signs I might need a root canal?
Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, severe toothache, pain when biting, a darkened tooth, or swelling near a tooth can all be signs. Only an exam and x-ray can confirm it.
What counts as a dental emergency?
Severe toothache, a broken, cracked or knocked-out tooth, swelling or infection, a lost filling or crown, and bleeding that won’t stop are all reasons to call right away.
What should I do if I have a dental emergency?
Call (626) 445-2536 immediately — same-day emergency appointments are available. If you have facial swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.
Are existing patients covered after hours?
Yes. Patients of Dr. Young are covered at all times for dental emergencies, and Dr. Young is available after hours for emergencies.
Do you accept dental insurance?
Yes. The practice accepts PPO dental insurance, including Delta Dental PPO and Cigna Dental PPO, and the team will verify your benefits and help you maximize your coverage.
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