We often hear questions from patients about endodontic retreatment at Access Endodontics in Ellicott City, Maryland. One common concern is whether or not this procedure involves surgery. The answer may surprise you: non-surgical endodontic retreatment is actually a common practice. In fact, it’s a safe and effective way to save teeth that might otherwise be lost. If you’re concerned about your dental health, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist about a referral to our specialists, Dr. Burton Waxman and Dr. Lina Jarboe. Contact our team online or call 410.304.7226 to discuss non-surgical endodontics and schedule a consultation.
What Is Endodontic Retreatment?
Endodontic retreatment is a procedure performed when a tooth that has been previously treated with a root canal begins to cause discomfort or shows signs of disease. Reasons for retreatment may include the following:
- Complicated canal anatomy – Sometimes, the canals in a tooth are too narrow or curved for traditional root canal treatment to be effective.
- Delayed crown placement or restoration – Without proper protection, bacteria can enter the tooth and cause infection, necessitating retreatment.
- New decay – If decay is detected underneath a tooth that has already had a root canal, retreatment may be necessary.
- Non-surgical endodontics focuses on treating these issues without the need for invasive surgery. This approach centers on removing the existing root canal filling, thorough cleaning, and reshaping the canals, followed by resealing the canals with new filling material.
Many patients fear root canals because they think the procedure is painful and might not work. While root canals are often successful, they may fail sometimes, or pain may come back. In such cases, endodontic retreatment may be necessary to save your tooth. An endodontist typically recommends this procedure after thoroughly evaluating the tooth and surrounding tissues.
How Does Non-Surgical Endodontic Retreatment Work?
The process of non-surgery endodontic retreatment often involves several steps:
- Access or removal of the existing crown or filling material
- Cleaning and disinfection of the root canal system
- Careful reshaping of the canals
- Sealing the canals with a biocompatible material
- Placement of a temporary filling until a new crown or other restoration can be completed
Throughout this procedure, our endodontists, Dr. Waxman and Dr. Jarboe, use advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment, including laser-assisted procedures, to ensure patient comfort and optimal results. For patients who may experience anxiety about dental procedures, we offer sedation options to provide a calm and relaxed experience.
Do You Need Endodontic Retreatment?
Determining the need for endodontic retreatment is best done in consultation with your dentist and an endodontist. Signs that you might need retreatment include:
- Pain or discomfort in a tooth previously treated with a root canal
- Swelling or tenderness around the treated tooth
- Evidence of infection on a dental X-ray
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, talk to your dentist about whether non-surgical endodontic retreatment might be right for you. At Access Endodontics, we aim to do everything possible to save your teeth while avoiding unnecessary procedures.
Schedule a Consultation with Access Endodontics in Maryland
Endodontic retreatment does not necessarily involve surgery. In many cases, non-surgical methods can effectively treat issues with previously treated teeth. If you’re experiencing discomfort or other symptoms related to a previously treated tooth, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist.
Remember, maintaining your oral health is essential, and you have options. Non-surgical endodontic retreatment could be the solution you need. If you want to explore this procedure further, ask your dentist about referring you to Access Endodontics. Our caring and compassionate team is committed to delivering professional, comprehensive care with your comfort as our priority. Contact our team online or call 410.304.7226 to learn more.