Root canal therapy may occasionally fail, necessitating retreatment. This involves removing the crown, cleaning the canals, and re-crowning the tooth, with a 75% success rate. Retreatment is often more cost-effective and preserves the natural tooth better than alternatives like implants or bridges.
Although root canal retreatment may seem daunting, it is usually straightforward and can be completed in 1-3 visits.
Factors that may lead to the failure of the initial root canal include:
Retreatment addresses these issues, providing a second chance to save your tooth and restore your oral health.
On the procedure day, local anesthesia will be used for your comfort, with other options available if needed. We’ll isolate the affected tooth with a rubber dam to keep it free from bacteria and saliva. The extent of treatment in one session depends on the inflammation level and case complexity.
The process starts with accessing the inner tooth. If a crown or post is present, it will be removed to expose the root canals. We’ll clear out old fillings and debris using an ultrasonic handpiece, then clean and reshape the canals with fine instruments, confirming thoroughness with X-rays. If necessary, we may place medicated packing material, with additional cleaning scheduled for a follow-up visit.
Once the canals are clean and prepared, they are sealed with gutta-percha to prevent bacteria and reinfection. A temporary crown or filling will be placed, followed by a custom-fitted permanent crown to restore function and ensure long-lasting protection.
This meticulous approach preserves the tooth’s integrity and protects it from future complications.
