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What are the most common mistakes made during root canal treatments?
A root canal, also referred to as endodontic treatment, is performed to repair a tooth that has become badly decayed, inflamed, or infected. During the procedure, the nerve and pulp within the affected tooth is removed and replaced with a filler. Root canals can be essential for relieving pain and preventing loss of damaged teeth. However, if performed incorrectly, root canals can inflict pain and potentially lead to ongoing problems or tooth loss. New York City dental malpractice attorney Lance Ehrenberg, Esq. discusses some of the most common errors made during root canal treatment and what you should do if you suspect dental malpractice below.
Most Common Mistakes Made During Root Canal Treatments
Root canals are common but intricate procedures that require surgical skill and care. Potential errors that may happen during a root canal include:
- Short fills: Dental surgeons often fail to fill root canals fully. Completing a root canal correctly takes time and expertise. When a dentist does not adequately fill a root canal system, it can lead to ongoing pain and could require the procedure be re-done.
- Missed canals: One of the main reasons that patients require root canal retreatment is due to missed canals. A surgical microscope must carefully guide the dental surgeon. If a canal is missed, the procedure will not be effective.
- Weakening of the tooth: Dentists that use aggressive procedures to open into the pulp layer of the tooth can irreparably weaken the tooth itself. This could cause the patient to need extraction of the tooth later on.
- Misdiagnosis: It can be challenging to accurately diagnosis the need for a root canal. Dental surgeons will need to carefully review x-rays and rely on their skill and experience to determine whether a root canal is an appropriate treatment for tooth decay or infection.
- Over Fill/Fracture Of Tooth: If the dentist proceeds past the working distance in the root of the tooth, he may perforate the apex of the tooth, which can lead to additional pain and loss of the tooth. Also, if the dentist is careless, the root may become fractured or perforated between the crown area and the root tip, with similar results for the patient.
Your Rights as a Dental Malpractice Victim
If you have experienced ongoing pain and problems after undergoing a root canal, you may have been the victim of dental malpractice. Contact a dental malpractice attorney as soon as possible for a review of your potential case.