What is Root Canal Retreatment?
Root canal retreatment is a procedure that reopens a previously treated tooth to clean out infection or bacteria that may have developed since the original treatment. Just like an initial root canal, the goal of retreatment is to remove infected material, thoroughly clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth and reseal it to prevent further problems.
Why Would a Root Canal Need Retreatment?
A treated tooth can fail to heal properly or become reinfected for a variety of reasons, including:
- New decay that exposes the root canal filling material to bacteria
- A loose, cracked or defective crown or restoration that allowed bacteria to reach the inner tooth
- Narrow or curved canals that weren’t fully cleaned during the original procedure
- Complicated canal anatomy that wasn’t detected during the first treatment
- A delay in placing the permanent crown or restoration after the initial root canal, allowing bacteria to recontaminate the tooth
If you’re experiencing pain, sensitivity, swelling or discomfort in a tooth that has previously had a root canal, it’s important to have it evaluated as soon as possible.
What Happens During Root Canal Retreatment?
We begin by taking X-rays and thoroughly examining the tooth to determine the cause of the issue and whether retreatment is the best option. If we move forward, we reopen the tooth to access the root canal filling material, remove it and clean out any infection or bacteria that has developed.
Once the canals are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, we refill and reseal the tooth. In many cases, we’ll then fit you with a new crown or restoration to protect the tooth going forward.
Looking for Root Canal Retreatment in Mansfield?
At Craig C. Callen, D.D.S., L.L.C. & Associates, our expert team specializes in endodontic care that helps save your natural teeth whenever possible. Call our office at [phone number] to schedule an evaluation and discuss whether root canal retreatment is right for you.
Looking For Expert Root Canal Therapy in [city]?
If you have an infected tooth and need expert care, [business name] is here to help. Our dentists provide compassionate, high-quality endodontic treatment options to protect and restore teeth.
Call us at [phone number] to schedule an appointment! Let us help you preserve the health and function of your teeth with advanced root canal therapy.