ENDODONTIC RETREATMENT
In some cases, a tooth that has a root canal therapy can fail to heal. This may be caused by decay, a fracture, untreated canals, or under-treated canals. The tooth may become painful months or even years after a successful root canal therapy. If your tooth has not healed or has developed new problems, you have a second chance at saving your tooth. A new procedure, endodontic retreatment, can be performed by your endodontist. Endodontic retreatment is performed by reopening the tooth, removing the filling material, and cleaning out the infected area. This process is similar to root canal therapy, but the endodontist must also remove the crown, post, and old filling material, making it a more complex procedure requiring more time. A microscope is used to carefully examine the inside of the tooth and check for any additional canals. Once the canals are cleaned and sealed, a temporary filling material is placed. It is important that you see your general dentist once treatment has been completed to obtain a new restoration for your tooth. Preserving your natural tooth is always the best option for chewing and function, which is why retreatments are a great alternative for restoring your tooth to health.