Controversial topic: Root canal treated teeth and autoimmune complaints?

The licenced dental community have apparently debunked this ad nauseum and widely cite the "correlation does not mean causation" consideration re emergent cases of autoimmune issues via root canal treatment, claims.

As I understand, the general thinking in relation to autoimmune symptoms and their connection to root canaled teeth, is they harbor bacteria inside the dead tooth that leek into the body and cause these complaints.

There is anecdotal report after report in relation to this, "I had my root canal tooth removed, symptoms cleared up, I never felt better", etc.

And then that wildly controversial film that Netflix removed, "Root Cause", again claiming (in apparently largely scientifically unvalidated terms), that root canaled teeth were causing chronic health complaints.

…….

One thing I can comment on with personal authority is that, there was also this idea circulating that mercury amalgam fillings were/are toxic or leaking micrograms of mercury into the body daily, and whilst they have been phased out, again speaking from personal experience, that claim is pure witchdoctor/snake-charmer nonsense.

Mercury amalgam fillings were robust and safe. Having them removed and replaced is probably the biggest regret of my life.

…….

But on root canal treated teeth, just look at youtube video comments and there's a never ending list of anecdotal claims where patients swear blind chronic symptoms were directly attributable to having them, and their symptoms cleared up when those teeth were removed.

Thoughts/experiences/discussion?

No?

All those in receipt of root canal treatment have been Jim-Dandy ever since?

No problems?

One concern for me is when the tooth roots extend into the sinus, infection later may result in additional complications due to sinus involvement.

Is that common?

……..

Listening to some advocates for root canals, they stress the importance of using the latest technology whilst performing the procedure:

• Microscopic procedure (which is common I believe)
• Cone beam CT scans (3D scans)
• Translucent light investigation for possible tooth cracks
• Ozone and laser for disinfection?

Do Irish practitioners even use the majority of that protocol?

CityDenalCentre

Answer to your 1st question

It is important to note that anecdotal evidence can be compelling but lacks the rigor of scientific validation. Personal experiences shared on platforms like YouTube may resonate with others but do not constitute reliable medical evidence. In clinical practice, if a patient experiences ongoing symptoms after receiving a root canal treatment, it is essential for them to consult with their dentist or healthcare provider for proper evaluation rather than relying solely on anecdotal reports

While personal experiences can influence perceptions about dental treatments such as mercury amalgam fillings and root canals, authoritative sources consistently affirm their safety when performed correctly by qualified professionals.

CityDenalCentre

Asnwer to your 2nd question

It is not uncommon for upper molars to have roots that extend into or near the maxillary sinus. This anatomical relationship can complicate treatment and increase the risk of sinus infections post-RCT. Symptoms may include nasal congestion, facial pain, and discharge from the nose, which could indicate a sinus infection stemming from dental issues.

While specific statistics on complications related to root canals extending into sinuses are limited, studies suggest that reinfection rates after RCT can vary between 5% and 20%. Factors influencing these rates include the complexity of the root canal system, quality of initial treatment, and patient-specific factors such as oral hygiene practices.

Many dental professionals in Ireland are increasingly incorporating modern techniques such as microscopic procedures and cone beam CT scans into their practice.

However, not all practitioners may use every aspect of this advanced protocol consistently; availability often depends on individual practice resources and training.

While many patients experience successful outcomes from root canal treatments without significant issues, there are risks associated with infections—especially when anatomical considerations like proximity to sinuses come into play. The integration of advanced technologies has improved treatment success rates but varies by practitioner.