Root Canal Retreatment
What is Root Canal Retreatment?
In rare cases, root canal therapy fails and retreatment is needed. Oftentimes, retreatment is necessary because the first root canal was either not done properly or other factors caused damage to the remaining tooth structure. The process of retreating a tooth that has already had a root canal is similar to the original procedure. Retreatment is rare, but it’s nice to know that the procedure can easily and quickly be done in our office.
Why is Root Canal Retreatment needed?
There are several reasons for why you may require root canal retreatment. Generally speaking, if you experience pain or have other problems with the tooth that had a root canal, retreatment may be needed. Some reasons you’d require the procedure include:
- Curved roots
- Inadequate removal of the dental pulp
- Decay of the tooth
- Sub-gingival cracks
- Leaking packing material
- Failure to have a crown placed in a timely manner
- Saliva has entered the improperly packed or leaked canals
Who is a candidate for Root Canal Retreatment?
To determine if you may need root canal retreatment, we’ll perform an examination and take x-rays. We will look for issues with the packing material, cracks or breaks that might be present and any abscesses that are underneath the tooth. If you need retreatment, we recommend that it be done as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the tooth. The procedure can be done easily in our office at your earliest convenience.
What happens during Root Canal Retreatment?
We begin by removing any filling and packing material in the tooth. The tooth is isolated with a rubber dental dam to prevent saliva and bacteria from getting into the roots. Once all of the previous packing material has been removed, we will thoroughly clean out the roots of the tooth. X-rays may be taken at this time to ensure we’re reaching the bottom of the canals or are getting into any curves present. Packing material is placed into the canals again and a filling is placed to close the tooth.
If you think you might need root canal retreatment and want to know more about the procedure, call us today and we will be able to further assist you.
