My dentist did a root canal on my top left upper molar this past February. Why do I still feel pressure, heat, and sensitivity in the tooth? I had an appointment with my dentist last month, and she took another X-ray. She missed one of the canals in my tooth and said she needed to do a repeat root canal. I appreciate that she admitted her mistake, but my anxiety is increasing. My dentist did the root canal two weeks ago. Even though I finished the antibiotics, I still feel sensitivity and pressure in the tooth, which feels hot. Did the second root canal fail because my dentist missed something again? This is so frustrating. Could a third root canal from another dentist work? – Thanks. Simeon from Alpharetta, GA

Simeon,

We understand your concern. It seems like your dentist made the right decision. A second-opinion dentist must examine and X-ray your tooth for an accurate diagnosis.

Should You Feel Pressure or Sensitivity After Root Canal?

Although you should not feel pressure or sensitivity months after root canal therapy, complications can occur in the following situations:

• The root canal procedure failed.
• Infected tooth pulp lingers in the root tip.
• Your dentist missed a canal, failing to treat it.

Your dentist failed to treat a canal but retreated the tooth, accessed another canal, and removed the infection. Therefore, the pain and pressure in your tooth should gradually improve. If it worsens or does not improve in a week, ask your dentist for a referral to an endodontist (root canal specialist).  Research published by Regenstrief Institute and Indiana University School of Dentistry shows that teeth with root canal treatment last an average of 11 years. Treatment from a specialist can increase the success of your procedure.

Scheduling an emergency appointment with a dentist will lead to a follow-up visit. If the dentist does not have advanced training in root canal treatment, you will need to see an endodontist anyway.

Meanwhile, avoid food that can increase tooth pressure and sensitivity, including crunchy, hard, chewy, or sticky foods.

Sugar Land implant and cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post.