Is extraction my only option after a failed root canal?

Question

I had a root canal 13 years ago, and found out that it failed and now has a "large infection". Unfortunately I don't have the imaging. The dentist recommended extraction, including a bone graft and bridge or implant. Should I pay to get a 2nd opinion, (possible 2nd root canal, or apicoectomy?) or is extraction the only option since the infection is large? I'm only 32 and prefer to keep my natural tooth if possible!

Scott Young, DDS · Answer

We all want to keep our teeth as long as possible, but there are times that an extraction is the best treatment.  Dental implants are a great long term approach when facing the loss of a tooth. If you are not comfortable then pay for a second opinion for peace of mind.  Good luck.

Dushyanth Paul, MDS · Answer

Conservation of what is natural is the aim of every dentist. In our case, your natural tooth has served you a good time span of 13 years. Hence, getting it removed should not be something which you need to feel bad about as the removal is carried out due to the existing infection.
If you go for tooth replacement option, my advice would be to go for dental implants if you are looking for a life-long permanent solution.

Ricardo Alvarez, DDS · Answer

Hello!! 
The option of preserving your natural tooth in mouth is always the best way to go as long as a retreatment or apicoectomy have a good prognostic if the percentage of success is low it might not be the way to go, there are several factors that need to be analyzed before taking a final decision on the main factors are the amount of infection and the amount and level of the bone lost if is underneath the point where the roots meet, then I am afraid it will be best to extract it, if you would like to consult another doctor please make sure is an endodontist.
I hope my answer was helpful!

Nirav Patel, MDS, PhD · Answer

its difficult to say anything  without seeing yr xray. so its my advice to upload xray. but for yr idea here i m giving you sequence , we normally followroot canal treatmentre root canal treatment with / without apicoectomyextraction

Ajay Krishna, BDS, MDS · Answer

If the infection is small you can try having a reroot canal treatment but if the infection is large in size and there is pus discharge it is always better to extract the tooth and go for replacement of tooth with a Dental Implant.

Is extraction my only option after a failed root canal?

Answers (8)

Answer: ROOT CANAL INFECTION

Answer: ROOT CANAL INFECTION

Answer: Re Root canal treatment

Answer: Re Root canal treatment

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Is extraction my only option after a failed root canal?

Answers (8)

Answer: ROOT CANAL INFECTION

Answer: ROOT CANAL INFECTION

Answer: Re Root canal treatment

Answer: Re Root canal treatment

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.