Endodontic Retreatment
Endodontic Retreatment
in Illinois and Indiana
Teeth that have undergone a root canal or endodontic treatment can often last just as long as natural teeth with proper care. However, in some cases, a treated tooth may not heal properly or may continue to cause pain, even months or years after the original procedure. When this occurs, our endodontic retreatment in Illinois and Indiana may be necessary to save the tooth.
Reasons for Retreatment
Causes Related to Initial Treatment:
- Curved or narrow canals that were not adequately cleaned or treated.
- Complicated canal anatomy that went undetected.
- Delayed placement of a crown or final restoration, allowing bacteria to enter.
- Restoration failure, allowing saliva or contaminants to leak into the treated tooth.
New Problems After Initial Success:
Even if the original treatment was successful, new dental issues may arise over time that compromise the tooth. These issues may include:
- New decay that exposes the root canal filling to bacteria.
- A cracked or loose crown/filling, leading to reinfection.
What to Expect During Retreatment
Once your doctor determines that endodontic retreatment is the best course of action, the procedure will typically follow these steps:
- Reopening the Tooth:
The tooth is carefully reopened to access the original root canal filling material.
- Removing Previous Material:
The old filling is removed to expose the root canal system.
- Cleaning and Examination:
The canals are thoroughly cleaned and examined under magnification to identify any hidden or missed anatomy.
- Refilling the Canals:
Once properly cleaned, the canals are sealed again, and a temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth.
Final Restoration
After the retreatment is complete, you must return to your general dentist as soon as possible to have a new crown or permanent restoration placed. This is crucial to protect the tooth and restore its full function.