Persistent Infection After Root Canal: Should You Switch Dentists?

Root canal treatment has been cleaned almost 10 times, but it is still producing pus?

Last year, I was considering extracting my wisdom tooth due to severe impaction, but the dentist recommended getting a crown instead.
However, during the summer, I suddenly started experiencing frequent toothaches.
The dentist suggested monitoring the situation for a while.
By September, the pain had worsened to the point where my face became swollen, and the dentist discovered that the nerve was necrotic inside the crown.
As a result, they decided to perform root canal treatment and cleaning.
It's been over three months now, and I've been returning to the clinic for cleaning every ten days, but it still hasn't been thoroughly cleaned.
The dentist suggested extraction instead.
Should I consider switching dentists, or should I continue with the cleaning and not rush into extraction?

DJ, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/11

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Ms.
DJ,
Hello! As mentioned, this doctor is very responsible.
The root canal treatment for your wisdom tooth may take longer if there is severe infection or pathology at the apex.
Extraction is also an option, as it can be difficult to treat and maintain cleanliness post-operatively.
Please communicate more with your doctor.
Thank you! Wishing you safety!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2016/12/11

More Info

When faced with persistent infection after a root canal treatment, it's understandable to feel frustrated and uncertain about the next steps. Your situation, where you have been experiencing ongoing pain and have had to return to the dentist frequently for cleaning, indicates that the initial treatment may not have fully resolved the underlying issue. Here are some considerations to help you decide whether to switch dentists or continue with your current one.

Understanding the Situation
1. Persistent Infection: After a root canal, if there is still infection, it could be due to several reasons, including incomplete cleaning of the canal, a missed canal, or a fracture in the tooth that allows bacteria to re-enter. The fact that you have been returning every ten days for cleaning suggests that the infection is not being adequately managed.

2. Communication with Your Dentist: It's crucial to have open communication with your dentist about your concerns. If your dentist has suggested extraction, it may be because they believe that further attempts to save the tooth may not be successful. However, it's essential to understand their reasoning and whether they have explored all possible options before making such a recommendation.

3. Second Opinions: If you feel uncertain about your current dentist's approach, seeking a second opinion can be beneficial. Another dentist may have different insights or treatment options that could be more effective. This is particularly important if you feel that your current dentist is not addressing your concerns adequately.

Factors to Consider
1. Treatment Options: Before deciding to switch dentists, consider whether there are alternative treatments available. For example, if the infection is due to a missed canal, a more thorough re-treatment or a different approach, such as apicoectomy (surgical removal of the root tip), might be suggested by another dentist.

2. Experience and Specialization: If your current dentist is not a specialist in endodontics (root canal treatment), it might be worth consulting with an endodontist. These specialists have advanced training and may be better equipped to handle complex cases of persistent infection.

3. Trust and Comfort: Your comfort level with your dentist is crucial. If you feel that your concerns are not being taken seriously or that you are not receiving adequate care, it may be time to consider a change. Trust is a vital component of the patient-dentist relationship, especially when dealing with complex dental issues.

Conclusion
In summary, if you are experiencing persistent infection after a root canal and feel that your current dentist is not providing satisfactory care, it may be wise to seek a second opinion. This does not necessarily mean you have to switch dentists immediately, but it can provide you with more information and options. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that you receive the best possible care for your dental health.

Additionally, if you do decide to switch dentists, look for one who has a good reputation for handling complex cases and who communicates clearly about treatment options and expectations. Remember, your dental health is important, and you deserve to feel confident in the care you receive.

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