Root Canal Treatment: When to Re-Treat and Wisdom Tooth Extraction Concerns

Q: Root Canal Treatment: When to Re-Treat and Wisdom Tooth Extraction Concerns

Hello, thank you for your question. <br>Here are my suggestions： If a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment shows a dark shadow on an X-ray after a few years, it may indicate chronic inflammatory lesions at the root, although there may not be any clinical symptoms. <br>I

Endodontic treatment

Hello Doctor, I have two questions to ask: 1.
An X-ray taken a few years after root canal treatment shows a dark shadow, but there is no pain or discomfort.
Should I undergo re-treatment? 2.
My hemoglobin level is 10.5, and my bleeding time is 3.5 minutes.
Is it safe to have my wisdom teeth extracted in the clinic? Thank you for your response.

I'm sorry, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/10/02

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Hello, thank you for your question.
Here are my suggestions: If a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment shows a dark shadow on an X-ray after a few years, it may indicate chronic inflammatory lesions at the root, although there may not be any clinical symptoms.
I still recommend retreatment to prevent the chronic lesion from becoming acute, which could potentially lead to acute pain.
A hemoglobin level of 10.5 with a bleeding activity of 3.5 mm indicates that the hematological function is still within normal limits.
If it is not a wisdom tooth, it can still be extracted at the clinic.
Finally, I wish you peace and happiness.

Reply Date: 2010/10/02

More Info

When it comes to dental health, particularly regarding root canal treatments and wisdom tooth extractions, there are several important factors to consider. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Root Canal Treatment and Re-Treatment: If you have previously undergone a root canal treatment and an X-ray shows a dark shadow (which could indicate an infection or a failure of the initial treatment), it is essential to consult your dentist or an endodontist (a specialist in root canal treatments). The presence of a dark shadow on an X-ray can suggest that the tooth is not healing properly, which could lead to further complications down the line. Even if you are not experiencing pain, it does not necessarily mean that the tooth is healthy. In some cases, a tooth can be asymptomatic while still harboring an infection.
The decision to re-treat a root canal depends on several factors, including the size of the dark area, the presence of any symptoms, and the overall health of the tooth. If the tooth is deemed restorable and the infection can be managed, re-treatment may be necessary. This typically involves removing the existing filling material, cleaning the canals again, and sealing them properly. If the tooth is not restorable, extraction may be the only option.

2. Wisdom Tooth Extraction with Low Hemoglobin Levels: Regarding your hemoglobin level of 10.5 g/dL, this indicates mild anemia, which can be a concern during any surgical procedure, including wisdom tooth extraction. The normal range for hemoglobin is typically between 12.0 to 15.5 g/dL for women and 13.5 to 17.5 g/dL for men. A lower hemoglobin level can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery, such as excessive bleeding or delayed healing.

Before proceeding with the extraction, it is crucial to discuss your hemoglobin levels with your dentist or oral surgeon. They may recommend further evaluation or treatment to address the anemia before performing the extraction. In some cases, if the anemia is mild and you are otherwise healthy, the dentist may still proceed with the extraction, but they will take extra precautions to minimize risks.
In summary, for the root canal treatment, it is advisable to seek a professional evaluation to determine if re-treatment is necessary, even in the absence of pain. For the wisdom tooth extraction, addressing your anemia is crucial for a safe procedure. Always communicate openly with your healthcare providers about your concerns and medical history to ensure the best possible outcomes for your dental health.

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