“Does root canal infection show up on an x-ray?”
I think I have a root canal infection. Does root canal infection show up on an x-ray?
6 Answers
DentalHygienistDentist
Often, at later stages an infected nerve affects the surrounding bone creating an abscess wishing is visible on an x-ray. However, in the early stages the infection may not yet be visible. Please come in for us to evaluate your particular situation at no charge.
Usually but not always
There are two image modalities that can be used in order to diagnose a root can infection. The first being a two dimensional image, that does not always show the infection, called a periapical image. The other image modality which is three dimensional and more accurate, called a CBCT, is much more detailed and can be very definitive with diagnosing root canal infections and fractures of teeth. Kevin D'Andrea DMDD'Andrea and Pantera, DMD, PCCosmetic and Family Dentistry2675 Whitney Ave.Hamden, CT, 06518
Initially the need for root canal is determined by symptoms and tests. The Infectuous nerve does not show up on X-rays. After the infection goes down the nerve canal and infects the bone below the roots it may show up then.
If the infection is advanced enough, yes it will show. Remember that the infection causing bacteria enter the tooth almost always through the crown area of the tooth. Then the infection must work its way down the root to the tip of the tooth. Then the bacteria can enter the bone and cause the typical dark shadow on the x-ray film. The tooth may be very painful as the infection works its way down the root, but you will not see evidence of the infection until it reaches the bone. Prior to that, the presence of the infection is diagnosed by the patient's symptomology
If, you are referring to a tooth that has already had a root canal, an Xray may show if the tooth has become re-infected. If the tooth has not had root canal previously most of the time an Xray will show if the tooth is infected along with your symptoms. See your dental office to be sure.
