A root canal is supposed to last a lifetime. Sometimes it does not. Here are the warning signs and what your options are if it happens.

Why Root Canals Sometimes Fail
Your dentist removes the infected pulp inside your tooth. They clean, fill, and seal it. But bacteria can re-enter. A crack can develop. The seal can break. These things happen even to the best-treated teeth. Warning Sign 1: Pain That Comes Back
The tooth felt better after treatment. Now it aches again. This pain might be dull. It might be sharp when you bite. Either way, it is a signal. Your body is telling you something is wrong beneath the surface. Warning Sign 2: Swelling That Will Not Go Away
A little swelling is normal after a root canal. It should fade within a few days. Persistent swelling or a new bump on your gum means infection has returned. This is not something to ignore. Warning Sign 3: Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
If your treated tooth suddenly reacts to temperature, take note. Lingering sensitivity, especially lingering pain, often points to a failing root canal. The nerve inside may be inflamed or infected again. Warning Sign 4: Tooth Discolouration
A darkening tooth after a root canal can signal internal problems. The treated tooth may be dying from the inside out. This often happens when the filling material breaks down. What Happens Next
Your dentist will take an X-ray to see what is happening beneath the gum. They may recommend retreatment. This means reopening the tooth, cleaning it again, and resealing it. In some cases, surgery is needed at the tip of the root. Sometimes the tooth needs to come out entirely. Acting Fast Matters
A failing root canal will not fix itself. The infection can spread. It can damage your jawbone. It can affect neighbouring teeth. The sooner you act, the simpler the solution tends to be. Call 01323 723757 or book at www.meadsdental.com Meads Village Dental Practice