Addressing Dental Gaps and Concerns After Root Canal Treatment

Q: Addressing Dental Gaps and Concerns After Root Canal Treatment

Hello： 1. <br>If there is a gap between the teeth but dental floss cannot reach the gums, you can use a finer interdental brush to clean the area near the gums. <br>Try this first, and if it still feels uncomfortable, consider asking your dentist to refill or reshape it using oth

Issues with dental fillings and post-root canal crowns?

Dear Doctor: After my dentist filled my penultimate molar, there is a gap between it and the last molar that was filled, but it seems that when I use dental floss, it only goes about three-quarters of the way into the gap and then stops.
There is a space left, but the dental floss does not reach the gum line.
Should I go back to my dentist for this? Also, if dental floss does not clean the area between the teeth and the gums, is it likely to lead to periodontal disease? A long time ago, after a root canal treatment covered by health insurance, I experienced pain again shortly after.
The doctor said it wasn't cleaned properly and had to redo it, but it has been fine for several years since.
I just completed another root canal treatment, and I would like to know how long I should observe for any issues to determine if it was cleaned properly.
Additionally, how long should I wait before getting a crown? I am concerned that if I get the crown and find out it wasn't cleaned properly, I would have to redo the root canal.

Mars, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/11

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: 1.
If there is a gap between the teeth but dental floss cannot reach the gums, you can use a finer interdental brush to clean the area near the gums.
Try this first, and if it still feels uncomfortable, consider asking your dentist to refill or reshape it using other methods.
2.
If there are issues, how long should you observe to ensure it is clean? You can observe for 1, 3, or 6 months.
In the first month, do not place a temporary crown; after one month, you can try a temporary crown between one to three months to test its function.
If there are no issues, a permanent crown should be placed within six months.

Reply Date: 2023/08/11

More Info

Addressing dental gaps and concerns after root canal treatment is a multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration of both the immediate and long-term implications for your oral health. Based on your description, it seems that there are a few key areas of concern that need to be addressed.

Firstly, regarding the gap between your lower second molar and the last molar, it is essential to ensure that the filling is adequately done. If you are experiencing difficulty with dental floss not reaching the gum line, this could indicate that the filling is either too high or that there is insufficient space for proper cleaning. This situation can indeed lead to plaque accumulation, which is a precursor to periodontal disease. If the floss only goes three-quarters of the way down, it may be advisable to return to your dentist for an evaluation. They can assess whether the filling needs adjustment or if there are other underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In terms of periodontal health, it is crucial to maintain proper hygiene, especially in areas where dental work has been performed. If food particles and plaque are allowed to build up in the gaps, it can lead to inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis, which can progress to more severe periodontal disease if left untreated. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are vital in preventing these issues, especially after significant procedures like root canals.

As for your concerns regarding the root canal treatment, it is not uncommon for patients to experience discomfort or pain after the procedure, especially if the canal was not completely cleaned. If you have had a previous experience where the root canal was not adequately performed, it is understandable to be cautious. Generally, if there are no symptoms such as pain, swelling, or sensitivity after a root canal, it is a good sign that the treatment was successful. However, if you do experience any discomfort, it is advisable to consult your dentist promptly.

In terms of timing for getting a crown or permanent restoration after a root canal, it is typically recommended to wait a few weeks to ensure that the tooth is stable and that there are no lingering issues. Your dentist may suggest monitoring the tooth for any signs of infection or complications before proceeding with the crown. This waiting period allows for any potential inflammation to subside and ensures that the tooth is ready for the final restoration.

In conclusion, it is essential to maintain open communication with your dentist regarding your concerns. If you feel uncertain about the quality of the work done or if you experience any discomfort, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion. Dental health is crucial, and addressing any issues early on can prevent more significant problems down the line. Regular check-ups, proper oral hygiene, and timely interventions are key to maintaining a healthy smile after dental procedures.

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