Can a root canal tooth get a cavity?

Yes. While the inside of the tooth is sealed, the outer structure and the area near the gums are still made of natural tooth material. This means decay can still form if sugar and bacteria are not cleaned away regularly.

Why does my 10-year-old’s root canal suddenly hurt?

New pain usually indicates a “leaky” seal that has allowed new bacteria to enter, or perhaps a tiny fracture in the root. It is important to have this checked immediately to prevent the infection from spreading to the jawbone.

Does the tooth become more brittle over time?

Yes, because the tooth no longer has a blood supply, it can become slightly more “dry” and brittle than a live tooth. This is exactly why a high-quality crown is recommended to provide the necessary structural support.

Is it possible to redo a root canal after 10 years?

Absolutely. This is called a “retreatment.” If a new infection is found, a specialist can often remove the old filling material, clean the canals again, and reseal the tooth to give it another decade or more of life.