Is It Normal for Front Teeth to Wiggle After Root Canal Treatment?

Slight mobility of the front teeth?

Hello, Doctor! I had a car accident at the beginning of August, which resulted in a crack in my front tooth.
The day after the accident, I went to a dental clinic near my home for an examination.
After the assessment, the doctor determined that I could undergo root canal treatment and get a crown.
I have recently completed the root canal treatment, and the doctor removed a small portion of my gum, stating it was necessary for the crown placement.
So, I would like to ask you, is it normal for my front tooth to have slight mobility after the root canal treatment? Should I consider getting a crown to protect the slightly mobile tooth?

Chen Jianming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/08

Dr. Zhu Guanyu reply Dentistry

Dear Jianming,
Regarding your condition, the mobility of your tooth is not a result of root canal treatment but rather caused by trauma (external force).
As for the fabrication of a dental crown, its primary purpose is to restore the shape and increase the strength of the tooth, but it cannot treat tooth mobility.
Thank you for your message, and I wish you a speedy recovery!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Kuan-Yu Chu
Director of Dentistry
Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2018/09/08

More Info

After undergoing root canal treatment, it's not uncommon to experience some degree of mobility in the treated tooth, especially if it was previously damaged or fractured. The mobility can be attributed to several factors, including the extent of the initial injury, the condition of the surrounding bone and gums, and the integrity of the tooth structure after treatment.

In your case, since the front tooth was involved in a car accident and subsequently underwent root canal therapy, the slight wiggling you are experiencing could be a result of the trauma from the accident. When a tooth is subjected to significant force, it can lead to damage not only to the tooth itself but also to the supporting structures, including the periodontal ligament and the bone surrounding the tooth. This can result in temporary mobility, which may improve over time as the healing process occurs.

However, it is essential to monitor this mobility closely. If the tooth continues to wiggle or if you experience any pain, discomfort, or swelling, it is crucial to return to your dentist for further evaluation. The dentist may perform additional imaging, such as X-rays, to assess the condition of the tooth and the surrounding structures.
Regarding the question of whether to place a crown (or dental cap) on the tooth, it is generally advisable to do so if the tooth has undergone root canal treatment. A crown provides protection and support to a tooth that has been weakened by decay or trauma. Since root canal-treated teeth can become more brittle over time, a crown can help prevent fractures and maintain the tooth's function.
In your situation, since your dentist has already prepared the tooth for a crown, it is likely that they believe the tooth will benefit from this additional protection. The crown will help stabilize the tooth and reduce any movement, providing a more secure and functional restoration.

In summary, while slight mobility in a tooth after root canal treatment can occur, it is essential to keep an eye on it. If the mobility persists or worsens, or if you have any concerns, don't hesitate to consult your dentist. They can provide you with the best course of action, which may include placing a crown to protect the tooth and ensure its longevity. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene and following your dentist's recommendations will be crucial in supporting the healing process and the overall health of your teeth.

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