Endodontic Retreatment

What is Retreatment?

Endodontic retreatment therapy is the process of treating a tooth that has already received endodontic treatment, such as a root canal. Some of the cases where retreatment may be necessary include:

• Incomplete root canal procedures that didn’t address the problem in their entirety. Incomplete removal of the decay during initial treatment, over time can lead to a re-infection of the tooth. Narrow, and curved canals can also remain undetected during initial tratment, leading to complications at a later time.
• Complications with your crown that include the delayed placement of the crown, or a crown that has become damaged or loose. Without the crown, your tooth can become exposed to bacteria. That can create a breeding ground for bacteria to reinfect the tooth.
• Injuries to the tooth, including cracks, or new decay, which have created an entirely new cavity in a tooth that has already received root canal therapy. As you get older, there’s always a chance that you could have further dental complications, even with the best dental health habits.

Retreatment commonly involves reopening the tooth, and removing the materials that were used to fill it during the first root canal procedure. After a close examination for additional canals or missed decay, the endodontist can then, properly clean and shape the canals of the tooth, and replace the old materials with new filling. The tooth is then resealed, usually with a temporary filling. A new crown or permanant filling will then be placed on the tooth to protect it.

If you are experiencing discomfort in or around a tooth that has received a root canal, or if you need more information regarding retreatment services, contact Dr. Bodepudi’s office in Essex County to schedule an appointment for an examination, and a consultation today.