Endodontic Retreatment
Our practice’s goal is to provide the highest level of endodontic care and treatment to our patients. Endodontic retreatment (non-surgical root canal retreatment) may be necessary when a tooth with a root canal becomes symptomatic or if concerning changes appear on an x-ray. In these situations, your dentist may recommend that your root canal needs to be re-done or “retreated” and refer you to an endodontist. Symptoms or x-ray changes can occur months or even years after an initial root canal.
Why Did My Initial Root Canal Treatment Fail?
Although initial root canal treatments are typically very successful long-term, occasionally root canals can fail. Failure can lead to pain and potentially abscess formation. The most common causes of root canal failure include:
- Inadequate cleaning of the root canal system during the first root canal, due to curved or hidden canals (complex tooth anatomy)
- Bacterial contamination into the canal system over time, possibly due to a new cavity or “leakage” of a current restoration
If Dr. Ryan determines that retreatment is the best solution for your situation, he will thoroughly explain the process and make sure to answer all questions. Please spend a few minutes watching the video below. It will help you better understand the retreatment procedure and hopefully help calm any anxious feelings about retreatment.
For further information regarding endodontic retreatment, please visit the following site: Endodontic Retreatment Explained.
If your dentist has suggested that you see an endodontist for a retreatment, we invite you to contact us today at (248) 633-2426.
