I had a root canal 4 months ago and just this week I am having a horrible toothache in the same tooth. In mid-April my job is sending me to Italy for 3 weeks. My insurance will cover dental care there, but I am unsure if I will have the time or even want to see a dentist in Italy. Should I have an emergency tooth extraction now? – Kyle
Kyle – Although you already received a root canal on the tooth, sometimes the canals have complex structures. When root canals are complex, some of the infected pulp may be left remaining in them. It can take weeks or a few months for it to become evident that the infection was not completely removed.
A repeat root canal can be attempted. If it is unsuccessful, an apicoectomy can be performed to surgically removed the root tips and seal them. This procedure can save your tooth and help you avoid extracting it. You should make an emergency appointment with your dentist for an examination. You will likely receive a referral to an endodontist or an oral surgeon for further treatment.
This post is sponsored by Hillsdale dentists Dr. Ralph Stanley, Dr. Magdalena Azzarelli, and Dr. Rogé Jacob.
