If you underwent root canal therapy in the past, the experience was probably not as bad as you had anticipated. Still, if your dentist informs you that your previously treated tooth needs to get another root canal in Meriden, you might hesitate to commit to the procedure. Why does root canal therapy sometimes need to be redone, and what can you expect from the retreatment experience? Read on below to learn the answers.
Reasons for Root Canal Retreatment
Here are two reasons why root canal retreatment, also known as endodontic retreatment, is sometimes necessary:
- Unsuccessful initial treatment. The vast majority of initial root canals are successful. However, keep in mind that it is often difficult or impossible for a dentist to see in all the little nooks and crannies inside your tooth. On occasion, some infected tissue gets left behind, which can lead to the need for endodontic retreatment down the road. This occurs more frequently in molars than it does it front teeth.
- New damage to the tooth. A tooth does not become invulnerable to damage after an initial root canal. If the crown on the tooth is loose or gets damaged, bacteria can sneak beneath it and cause a new infection. This can also happen if a patient postpones getting a crown placed on the treated tooth for any reason.
The need for endodontic retreatment can arise weeks, months, or even years after the initial procedure. Routine checkups can help your dentist catch developing issues before they become severe and lead to the need for a tooth extraction.
What to Expect During Endodontic Retreatment
Here are a few notes about what to expect during endodontic retreatment:
- Your dental team wants you to feel comfortable, so they will numb your mouth. Sedation may be available as well.
- The treatment might take a bit longer than your initial root canal. That is because your dentist will have to remove the filling material that was placed during your original appointment before they can remove damaged tissue from inside the tooth. The extended treatment time may lead to a slightly higher cost than what you paid for your first treatment.
- Your general dentist might perform your root canal retreatment. However, it is also possible that you will be referred to a local specialist.
- In most cases, root canal retreatment is successful. If yours is not for any reason, your dentist will talk to you about other treatment options, such as extraction or a complex procedure known as an apicoectomy.
The prospect of undergoing root canal retreatment might seem a little scary, but you can commit to the procedure with confidence that it can benefit your oral health and protect you from future problems.
Meet the Practice
The team at Meriden Dental Group provides gentle, high-quality treatment in a welcoming environment. If you are concerned that a past root canal may have failed, we are ready to assess the situation and answer your questions. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, contact us at 203-404-6800.