As with any dental or medical procedure, it’s possible your tooth won’t heal as expected after initial treatment for a variety of reasons, including:
- Narrow or curved canals were not treated during the initial procedure.
- Complicated canal anatomy went undetected in the first procedure.
- The placement of the crown or other restoration was delayed following the endodontic treatment.
- The restoration did not prevent salivary contamination to the inside of the tooth.
- New decay can expose the root canal filling material to bacteria, causing a new infection in the tooth.
- A loose, cracked or broken crown or filling can expose the tooth to new infection.
- A tooth sustains a fracture. During retreatment, the endodontist will reopen your tooth and remove the filling materials that were placed in the root canals during the first procedure. The endodontist then carefully examines the tooth, looking for additional canals or new infection. The endodontist then removes any infection, cleans and shapes the canals, and places new filling materials. The opening is then sealed with a temporary filling. The tooth should then be restored with a more permanent restoration to seal and protect it. In some cases the endodontist may be the one to seal the tooth more permanently in preparation for the general dentist to place a crown.
Root Canal RetreatmentFrequantly Asked Questions
Why would I need root canal retreatment?
A tooth may need retreatment if it hasn’t healed fully after the initial procedure or if it develops new problems such as hidden canals, reinfection, or new decay. Retreatment addresses these issues by removing any lingering or new bacteria and resealing the tooth to prevent further damage.
Will the retreatment procedure hurt?
Modern anesthetics and advanced techniques help minimize discomfort during retreatment. Most patients describe the experience as similar to the initial root canal, and our primary goal is to relieve pain caused by infection or inflammation, not add to it.
How do you identify the problem before retreatment?
At Springfield Lorton Endodontics, we use high-resolution imaging, including CBCT scans, to carefully examine the tooth and locate any areas of missed or reinfected canals. This detailed assessment allows us to develop a precise treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
What happens during the retreatment process?
Dr. Anmar Janabi begins by removing any existing root canal filling materials, then thoroughly cleans and reshapes the canals using an operating microscope for enhanced precision. Once the canals are disinfected, they’re refilled and sealed to protect against future reinfection. A new restoration, such as a crown, may then be placed to reinforce the tooth.
Is it better to extract the tooth or choose retreatment?
Preserving your natural tooth is often the best choice when possible, as it helps maintain proper chewing function, prevents shifting of neighboring teeth, and supports overall oral health. Retreatment can save the tooth from extraction and eliminate the need for more extensive tooth replacement options like implants or bridges.
Disclaimer: Please note that the provided information above is based on general knowledge, and it's always recommended to consult with Dr. Janabi for personalized advice and recommendations regarding your or your child's specific dental needs and conditions. For any questions or concerns, please call our office.
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