The tooth may not heal as expected after initial treatment for a variety of reasons:
- Curved or narrow canals that were not treated during the initial treatment.
- Complicated canals that went undetected during the initial treatment.
- The crown or restoration was not placed within the appropriate amount of time following the procedure.
- The crown or restoration that did not prevent saliva from contaminating the inside of the tooth.
In some cases, new problems can influence a tooth that was successfully treated:
- New decay can expose a root canal filling material, causing infection.
- A cracked or loose filling or crown can expose the tooth to new infection.
HOW IS THE PROCEDURE PERFORMED?
This is the step-by-step breakdown of the endodontic retreatment plan.
1) Preparation
Once retreatment has been selected as the treatment option, Dr. Patel will examine and x-ray the tooth, then administer a local anesthetic. Once the tooth is numb, a small protective sheet called a “dental dam” is placed over the area to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and free of saliva during the procedure. Dr. Patel will reopen your tooth to gain access to the root canal filling material. The restorative material will be removed to enable access to the root canal.
2) Cleaning and Shaping
Dr. Patel will then clean your canals and carefully examine the inside of the problematic tooth using magnification and illumination for additional canals or unusual anatomy that needs to be addressed. He will additionally utilize the EdgePRO™ endodontic laser to thoroughly clean out the canals and surrounding spaces.
3) Filling and Sealing
Once the space is cleaned and shaped, the root canal is refilled with a biocompatible substance called “gutta-percha.” This rubber-like material is placed in the space to ensure complete sealing of the root canal. A temporary filling is then placed in the access opening of the tooth.
4) Crown Seat
After the treatment is completed you will then need to return to your general dentist as soon as possible to get a crown or other restoration on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function. If the tooth lacks sufficient structure to hold the restoration in place, your general dentist may place a post inside the tooth.
It is very important for come back for a follow-up visit in 6 months to monitor the healing.