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.

Testimonials.

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Testimonials

My entire family gives Dr. Schmidt 5 stars! He is skilled, experienced, trustworthy, and you can tell he enjoys his job. My two children love to go to the dentist, and I think that speaks volumes. He makes you feel comfortable and at ease, even during unpleasant procedures. I trust Dr. Schmidt completely and know that he would never recommend unnecessary dental work. Oh, and by the way you cannot feel a thing when he gives you a shot.
The office staff is fun and super helpful as well. If you are looking for a dentist you will not regret coming to Dr. Schmidt!

Christina H.

THE place to go if you're scared of dentists. Dr. Schmidt is funny and relaxes you immediately. He makes a real effort so you don't feel pain. I hadn't gone in years and was hyperventilating before I went. Dr Schmidt's whole team was great. Told them I was nervous and they were great. Now, I'm never afraid to go. I trust him to the point that I eventually got braces (his recommended orthodontist was fabulous too) and today I've got a great smile.
He has several chairs. They can take X-rays right in the chair, and you can see them yourself on a big screen.
The office is a bit hidden in the interior corner of the shopping center, so you won't notice it from the parking lot.
My embarrassing moment... Going to the fish and chip place a few spots away to buy British candy afterward. I don't eat it right away!

A G.

Dr. Schmidt is the best dentist around. I have experienced a few different approaches and Dr. Schmidt's is the most comforting and knowledgeable. You never leave feeling negative or like you got raked over the coals. I was referred to Dr. Schmidt years ago by a close family friend and have not turned back. My family sees him and I have referred everyone I know to him. Over the years his staff has changed a lot but everyone I have come across is great. Highly recommended!

Jonathan G.

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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.

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 below.