Root Canal Retreatment

In rare cases, root canal therapy fails to work as expected. The treated tooth might not heal properly or a patient might experience post-surgical complications that jeopardize the tooth. Root canal retreatment involves the removal of the previous crown and packing material, the cleansing of the root canals, and the re-packing and re-crowning of the tooth. In short, root canal retreatment is almost identical to the original procedure, aside from the structural removal. The success rate for a root canal retreatment runs at around 75%.

Root canal treatments and retreatments are a better alternative than extraction for most individuals. If a tooth has good bone support, a solid surface and healthy gums beneath it, it stands a good chance of being saved. Opting for root canal retreatment can be far less expensive than the alternatives. Dental implants, extensive bridgework and the creation of aesthetically pleasing prosthetic teeth cost far more than working with the natural tooth. They also require maintenance and feel less natural than a “real” tooth.

Why is root canal retreatment required?

Though the prospect of more endodontic surgery might not be pleasant, root canal retreatment is fairly simple. In general, the whole treatment can be completed in 1-3 visits.

There are a number of reasons why root canal therapy unexpectedly fails, including:

  • Cracked crown leaking filling material.
  • Curved or narrow canals not treated during the original procedure.
  • Delay in the placement of restorative devices following the procedure.
  • New decay to the tooth.
  • New fracture in the treated tooth.
  • Saliva entering the restorative structure.
  • Undetected complex canal structures.

What does root canal retreatment involve?

On the day of the retreatment procedure a local anesthetic will be administered, unless another type of anesthetic has been selected. The affected tooth is isolated with a rubber dam. The dam protects the tooth during treatment from bacteria and saliva. The amount the dentist can do within a single appointment will much depend on the amount of inflammation present, and the complexity of the treatment.

The first step in a root canal retreatment is to gain access to the inner tooth. If a crown and post have been placed, these will be removed.

Next, filling material and obstructions that block the root canals will be removed. This removal is conducted using an ultrasonic handpiece. The advantage of using this tool is that any unwanted material is vibrated loose. Tiny instruments will then be used to clean and reshape the root canals. X-rays may be taken to ensure that the roots are thoroughly clean. If this part of the treatment proves to be complex, medicated packing material will be applied, and the rest of the cleansing procedure will be done at the next visit.

When the dentist is confident that the root canals are completely clean, gutta-percha is used to pack the space. This rubbery material seals the canals to prevent bacterial invasion. Finally, a temporary crown or filling is applied to tooth. At a later date, the color-matched permanent crown will be placed.

If you have any questions or concerns about root canal retreatment, please ask your dentist.

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Do you fear going to the dentist? If you do, this is the place for you. Elite Dental is where you want to go not only because they offer sedation, but because they have the most up to date service and are always learning more. At Elite Dental you are treated as a person, not just a number by Dr. Johnson and Dr. Chaney. They have the most caring staff I have ever had the pleasure to meet, right down to the front desk. At Elite Dental you feel so relax and comfortable. I would recommend Elite Dental to anyone.

Joanne Newell

You simply cannot beat Elite Dental! Dr. Chaney and the Elite staff are top of the line. They take very intentional steps to get to know the individual needs of their patients and develop a plan that works for you! They are excellent communicators and take a personal interest in each individual. Their facilities and care are the very best you will find!

Kenny Cobble

If you are looking for a dentist, you will not be able to beat Elite Dental. Dr. Chaney and the staff work to get to know you and your dental needs. They will work with you to determine what is best for you. They don't try to over-sell you, but they will go through everything with you and lay out multiple options for you, along with the pluses and minuses of each. You are treated like a friend, not just a patient or a number.

They are very professional and do a wonderful job. They do everything they can to make you comfortable and at ease. I feel really blessed that I found them.

Kenneth Lamb

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Contact Us.We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form.

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We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.