Are you experiencing pain or discomfort in a tooth that has previously undergone root canal therapy? If so, there is a chance that you may need endodontic retreatment. Retreatment can help save your tooth and alleviate any discomfort you may have. At Access Endodontics, our experienced endodontists, led by Dr. Burton Waxman and Dr. Lina Jarboe, are here to help guide you through the process.
If you’re considering endodontic retreatment, knowing the steps involved in the procedure can be helpful. We understand dental anxiety and believe that the more you know about the procedure, the better prepared you will be. Get started today by contacting the Access Endodontics team at 410.304.7226 or reach out to us online today to schedule an appointment.
What Is an Endodontic Retreatment?
Endodontic retreatment is a procedure that involves removing the existing root canal filling, cleaning the canals, and refilling them. The goal is to prevent any further infection or inflammation by removing any bacteria that may have remained after the initial root canal therapy. By performing endodontic retreatment, our endodontists are able to save your tooth and prevent the need for extraction.
If you’ve previously had root canal therapy, there are a few reasons why you might need endodontic retreatment. If your tooth hasn’t healed properly, you may still be experiencing pain or discomfort. Additionally, if there was a missed canal or if the canal wasn’t treated as thoroughly as it should have been during your initial root canal therapy, you may still have tooth sensitivity. Finally, if your filling or crown has been damaged or become loose due to trauma or an accident, this can lead to bacteria entering the canals and causing further damage.
The Steps Involved in an Endodontic Retreatment
The steps involved in endodontic retreatment include:
- Anesthetic
- Opening the crown
- Inspecting the root canals
- Removing filling material
- Cleaning and shaping the canals
- Filling the canals
- Sealing and closing the crown
- X-ray to check for successful retreatment
The first step in endodontic retreatment is to numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. Your endodontist will then make a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the existing filling and canals. Next, they will carefully remove the existing filling material and any bacteria or infection present. They will then use a series of files to clean and shape the canals, flushing them with a special solution to remove any debris. Once the canals have been thoroughly cleaned, your endodontist will fill them with a biocompatible material and seal the opening in your tooth with a temporary filling.
Your endodontist will carefully assess your tooth to ensure that it’s healed properly and that there are no signs of infection or inflammation. After a few weeks, you’ll return to your dentist to have a permanent filling or crown placed. Taking care of your tooth following an endodontic retreatment is essential for ensuring successful long-term results. Simply follow your endodontist’s instructions and practice good oral hygiene to help ensure your endodontic retreatment is successful.
Contact Access Endodontics Today for Endodontic Retreatment
Don’t let discomfort or pain in a previously treated tooth keep you from living life to the fullest. Our endodontists at Access Endodontics are here to help guide you through the endodontic retreatment process. With our experience and leading-edge technology, we can save your tooth without fear of discomfort. In addition to endodontic retreatments, we also offer a full range of endodontic treatments, from root canals to apicoectomies. Contact us today at 410.304.7226 or reach out online to schedule a consultation.