Your root canal is complete, and you have not experienced any issues in the weeks following your procedure. But suddenly, you begin to feel tooth discomfort, and you begin to wonder if something might be wrong. Although root canals are known to have a high success rate, some instances can occur that require patients to undergo what is known as retreatment. Find out why this might be necessary and what you can expect should your dentist recommend it.
Why You Might Require Root Canal Retreatment
It is extremely rare that an individual will ever need root canal retreatment. However, there are situations that can arise that will require this type of procedure. Some of the most common reasons a person might need to have their root canal redone:
- The tooth becomes reinfected because of bad oral bacteria re-entering the vulnerable structure
- Contaminated saliva breaches the underside of a dental crown that is not properly sealed
- Too much time passed between the root canal procedure and receiving the permanent dental crown
- The canals inside the root were not properly cleaned, causing bacteria to remain and spread
- The customized restoration is damaged, allowing harmful particles to reach the underlying tooth
- The tooth itself becomes damaged
What You Can Expect During the Procedure
Should your dentist recommend retreatment because of one of the above-mentioned reasons, you can expect a similar process as your original root canal. You will first receive local anesthesia so that the area surrounding your tooth (as well as the tooth itself) is completely numb. This will prevent you from feeling any pain during your procedure. Next, your dentist will reopen the tooth by creating an access point in the crown after removing your customized dental crown.
Depending on the reason for your retreatment, the dentist will clear out additional canals and/or remove any newly infected tissue. Carefully searching for any untreated areas, your dentist will pay close attention to the interior of the tooth to make sure no bad bacteria is left behind. It will then be thoroughly cleaned before gutta percha is used to fill in the structure. Finally, a temporary crown is put into place while your new restoration is created. After a few short weeks, you will return to have your permanent crown removed and your finalized one secured over your vulnerable tooth.
Undergoing retreatment may not be what you want to hear from your dentist, but if it is necessary to ensure the status of your future smile, do not be fearful of what you can expect. You can trust that your dental team will go to great lengths to keep you comfortable throughout your procedure as well as generate long-lasting, positive, results.
About the Author
Dr. John Ludu and his team at Devoted Family Dental are here to save smiles. When a tooth is infected or severely damaged, the only viable solution may be to perform a root canal. While these procedures are highly successful, there are times when retreatment is necessary. Fortunately, you can count on our team to take care of your tooth, giving it the attention it needs to thrive and function well into the future. Contact us at (623) 444-6222 to learn how we can help you keep more of your natural tooth structure.