Root canal treatment is a safe, effective solution for treating an infection in the tooth root and surrounding tissues. In most cases, this preserves the natural tooth, allowing it to remain healthy for many more years. However, in rare instances, there are occasions when an infection can return months or even years after treatment. When this occurs, endodontic retreatment may be recommended.
Possible Reasons that you Need a Root Canal Retreatment
Though it is rare for re-treatment to be needed, it may be recommended to preserve a previously-treated tooth in certain cases. The most common reason for needing retreatment is an infection, which can be caused by:
- New tooth decay
- A loose, cracked, or broken crown
- Complicated canal anatomy went undetected in the first procedure
- Delayed placement of the crown following initial treatment
- A fractured tooth
Are Root Canal Retreatments Common?
Unfortunately, sometimes root canal therapy will fail. This is due to a variety of reasons we noted above. Depending on the severity of infection, it may be possible that traditional root canal therapy simply did not get all infections to begin with. This is the edge that Elite Endodontics has in their GentleWave® technology. We can safely, effectively, and quickly remove infected dental tissue to ensure you will have the highest success rate possible in endodontic treatment.
Root Canal Retreatment Procedure
Retreatment is completed in the same manner as the initial root canal treatment. Pensacola endodontist, Dr. Todd will remove the crown and filling materials, remove the infection, and clean the canals before refilling them to prevent the recurrence of infection. Once healed, a new crown will be placed.
If you are experiencing discomfort in a tooth that has previously had root canal treatment, contact Elite Endodontics for an evaluation.
