Root Canal Retreatment

Teeth that undergo a root call process of treatment can last long without requiring additional treatment. In some cases, teeth that undergo root canal fail to heal completely or get infections. This is where endodontic retreatment applies at Dentalville Panorama City in Los Angeles. It is an additional procedure that supports healing to prevent extraction of your tooth.

What Are The Main Reasons Why Teeth Fail To Heal Completely?

• Narrow or curved canals that could not be accessed during initial treatment procedure.
• Complex structure of canals that were missed during initial procedure.
• Delays in placing the crown following root canal.
• The crown did not completely cover the area to prevent saliva access into the treated area.
• A new decay process may expose the filling to bacteria which result to emergence of a new infection on the treated tooth
• A broken or disintegrated filling exposing the tooth to new infections.
• Fracturing of the tooth resulting in breakage of the crown.

The Process of Endodontic Retreatment

First, before retreatment, the restorative materials used in the previous treatment have to be disassembled. This includes the crown, post, and core material. During the process, the root filling material used previously also need to be extracted. We will then examine possible causes of reinfection. Usually, your service provider will check for possible untreated root canal parts. The root of the tooth has to undergo a chemo-mechanical preparation to allow the new filling process.

The opening is filled with a temporary filling to allow time for treatment of the root. If the tooth canals are narrow or blocked, We may recommend endodontic surgery. The process involves incision at the tip of the root to allow sealing. On your return visit, the temporary filling is removed and a new crown is placed to cover the space and protect the tooth. At this point, we help to restore the tooth to full function.

While endodontic retreatment is a great option for saving your tooth, you may need alternative treatment depending on the extent of your infection.

Endodontic Surgery

When the retreatment does not apply, surgery may save your tooth. The surgery involves making a cut on the gum to access the tip of your tooth. After this, the root tip is sealed to prevent exposure to infection. In some cases endodontic surgery can be combined with retreatment depending on the situation of your tooth.

Tooth Extraction

This is not the best option but some situations may not be reconstructive. After removal of your tooth, a bridge or a removable pad is suitable to allow chewing of food and protect the sore gum. These alternative processes may require more time and money to be effective.

Your natural teeth are the best whether treated or not. Endodontic retreatment will however, restore infected teeth to normal function by removal, reexamination and replacement of the filling material. If the teeth suffer extensive damage, your doctor may perform endodontic surgery to protect the teeth. Extraction of teeth is not the best option but may apply where treatment methods are not helpful.