My tooth still hurts even after getting a root canal — Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Why does my tooth still hurt after getting a root canal?
A. Root canal treatment cleans the inside of the tooth to remove infection.
However, pain can persist if contamination wasn’t fully eliminated or if the tooth has cracks or holes. Furthermore, without essential equipment (rubber dam, microscope, CT scan), bacteria often cannot be completely removed.
Q2. Why isn’t it getting better even after multiple “root canal disinfections”?
A. Root canal treatment is about “precision,” not “number of visits.”
Repeating disinfection dozens of times won’t improve the situation unless the source of infection is reliably removed. Using a rubber dam to prevent bacterial entry and a microscope to magnify the interior for treatment makes it easier to achieve results in a shorter period.
Q3. Can a tooth that had its nerve removed sometimes crack?
A. Yes. If the tooth itself is cracked, or if decay has dissolved the interior down to the bone, root canal treatment cannot address it. In such cases, extraction or prosthetics (bridge/implant) must be considered. A precise examination can determine whether the cause is a “problem with treatment precision” or a “structural problem with the tooth.”
Q4. How can I make a tooth with a root canal last longer?
A. Teeth with root canals become more brittle because they lose their nutrient supply. Therefore,
- Proper root canal filling to prevent reinfection
- Reinforcing with a crown
- Regular check-ups for monitoring
- Reviewing bite alignment and lifestyle habits are crucial management steps. Remember that “the lifespan depends on maintenance” even after treatment.
Q5. I had treatment at another clinic, but the pain persists. Is retreatment possible?
A. Yes, it is possible. Especially with precision root canal treatment using microscopes and rubber dams, retreatment often leads to improvement.
Rather than endlessly repeating disinfection visits, it’s crucial to undergo a thorough examination first to clearly identify “why it isn’t healing.”
Q6. What kind of dental clinic should I choose?
A. To increase the success rate of root canal treatment,
- Routinely uses rubber dam isolation
- Equipped with a microscope
- Capable of diagnosis using CT scans
Summary
The concern “My tooth hurts even after the nerve was removed” is by no means uncommon.
However, most cases stem from insufficient treatment precision or inadequate equipment.
Receiving precise treatment in the right environment offers the potential for improvement.
Rather than continuing visits while feeling anxious, undergoing a thorough examination once could significantly change your situation. We hope this information is helpful.