Re-treatment

of Endodontically Treated Tooth

A re-treatment may be needed if a tooth does not heal as expected after the initial treatment for several reasons. Such as untreated canals due to calcification, complicated canal anatomy, delayed restoration (crown), permanent restoration did not prevent contamination inside of the tooth; new decay can cause bacterial contamination, and possible complications from fractures, loose, cracked or broken crown.

1) We will reopen your tooth to access the root canal filling material.If a crown, post and core material has been placed then it must be removed or disassembled in locating the root canals.

2) Once the canal filling is removed we can clean the canals and use the microscope to examine the canals for additional canals or unusual anatomy that requires treatment.

3) When the canals are cleaned they will fill and seal the canals with warm gutta-percha and a temporary filling in the tooth.

4) Upon completion of the re-treatment you will need to return to your dentist for your final restorative work. Your dentist will either place a crown or other restoration for protection and to restore the tooth to full function.

Cost or Additional Care Following Re-treatment: The re-treatment of an existing root canal may be more complex. You may need to have your existing restoration redone. Also, the re-treatment is generally more costly than the original root canal due to the fact we will have to redo the original root canal and take extra time looking for unusual canal anatomy. Some dental insurance companies cover most of the cost of a re-treatment, while others only allow a one-time treatment on a tooth. Please check with your insurance company to confirm proper coverage.The alternatives to re-treatment if all nonsurgical options have been considered may be: Re-treatment of tooth and Endodontic Surgery, Endodontic Surgery or Extraction of problem tooth.