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Dentistry/effects of a "short" root canal.
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Question
Hi Dr,
I have a root canal on a molar, and a xray showed that one of the roots is a "little short". The xray does not show any infection nor is there swelling. This is all info from my dentist.
I am experiencing some discomfort from that tooth (& general area - back of mouth), but coincidentally, the discomfort started after I stopped using a bruxism guard.
What are the general effects of a "short" root canal? Can it lead to discomfort, but no infection nor swelling? I am trying to understand my options, and if the "coincidence" of stopping the use of the bruxism guard could have had a negative effect (& reason for discomfort) on that particular tooth.
Thank you.
Hi Andrew
if a root filling is 'short' then there is a potential for re-infection in the future as there is still some pulp tissue remaining. It may, however, give no symptoms whatsoever.
Obviously the discomfort you experienced was caused by the night guard and not that tooth. It may need adjusting.
Regards
Tony Appleton
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Tony Appleton BDS DPDS
Expertise
I am an experienced general dental practitioner in private dental practice. I have worked for the past 25 or so years in the UK, and own a busy practice in Stratford upon Avon, Stratford Dental. From early 2012 my wife and I moved to Canberra, Australia, where I have taken up the position of Lead Dentist in a large city-centre practice. I will happily answer questions related to general practice, and have interests in endodontics (root canal), dental implants, CEREC/E4D cad-cam dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.
Experience
I have been a general dental practitioner for over 25 years, working initially under the NHS, but since 2001 have been solely in private practice. I run a busy practice with my wife, Lisa, who is also a dentist. I have also been closely involved in the training of young dentists, and have lectured to dentists on a variety of subjects, both clinical and managerial, related to general dental practice.
Organizations
British Dental Association
Publications
British Dental Journal
Cancer Treatment Reviews
Education/Credentials
BDS Sheffield 1986 DPDS Bristol 2001
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