Root Canal Retreatment

In rare cases, root canal therapy fails to work as expected. The treated tooth might not heal properly or a patient might experience post-surgical complications that jeopardize the tooth. Root canal retreatment involves the removal of the previous crown and packing material, the cleansing of the root canals, and the re-packing and re-crowning of the tooth. In short, root canal retreatment is almost identical to the original procedure, aside from the structural removal. The success rate for a root canal retreatment runs at around 75%.

Root canal treatments and retreatments are a better alternative than extraction for most individuals. If a tooth has good bone support, a solid surface and healthy gums beneath it, it stands a good chance of being saved. Opting for root canal retreatment can be far less expensive than the alternatives. Dental implants, extensive bridgework and the creation of aesthetically pleasing prosthetic teeth cost far more than working with the natural tooth. They also require maintenance and feel less natural than a “real” tooth.

Why is root canal retreatment required?

Though the prospect of more endodontic surgery might not be pleasant, root canal retreatment is fairly simple. In general, the whole treatment can be completed in 1-3 visits.

There are a number of reasons why root canal therapy unexpectedly fails, including:

  • Cracked crown leaking filling material.
  • Curved or narrow canals not treated during the original procedure.
  • Delay in the placement of restorative devices following the procedure.
  • New decay to the tooth.
  • New fracture in the treated tooth.
  • Saliva entering the restorative structure.
  • Undetected complex canal structures.

What does root canal retreatment involve?

On the day of the retreatment procedure a local anesthetic will be administered, unless another type of anesthetic has been selected. The affected tooth is isolated with a rubber dam. The dam protects the tooth during treatment from bacteria and saliva. The amount the dentist can do within a single appointment will much depend on the amount of inflammation present, and the complexity of the treatment.

The first step in a root canal retreatment is to gain access to the inner tooth. If a crown and post have been placed, these will be removed.

Next, filling material and obstructions that block the root canals will be removed. This removal is conducted using an ultrasonic handpiece. The advantage of using this tool is that any unwanted material is vibrated loose. Tiny instruments will then be used to clean and reshape the root canals. X-rays may be taken to ensure that the roots are thoroughly clean. If this part of the treatment proves to be complex, medicated packing material will be applied, and the rest of the cleansing procedure will be done at the next visit.

When the dentist is confident that the root canals are completely clean, gutta-percha is used to pack the space. This rubbery material seals the canals to prevent bacterial invasion. Finally, a temporary crown or filling is applied to tooth. At a later date, the color-matched permanent crown will be placed.

If you have any questions or concerns about root canal retreatment, please ask your dentist.

Testimonials.

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Testimonials

I had an entire dental replacement procedure done over the last 18 months. All new crowns to replace my worn teeth. BridgeCreek Prosthetic Dentistry did an amazing job and it was life changing for me. I now feel excited to smile again after many years of hiding. Dr Butler and his staff are just fantastic! Caring, attentive and professional. The entire experience was positive and it has given me a new found confidence in my appearance.

Thank you BridgeCreek

E. Galisewski Age 60

I have been seeing Dr. Butler and his staff at BridgeCreek Prosthetic Dentistry for over five
years for regular dentistry and other oral health issues. Dr. Butler's approach to dentistry has
been perfect for my needs, as he understand and treats serious problems when they arise,
but also takes a conservative approach when it is warranted, and does not perform
unnecessary treatments or interventions. This has saved me not only significant sums of
money over what other care providers recommended for my oral health needs, but has also
saved me from a lot of unnecessary procedures and the pain and inconvenience related
thereto.

I would recommend Bridgecreek Prosthetic Dentistry to anyone, no matter what level of oral
health care you need.

J. Swift

Texas A & M
Texas Health Science Center
Baylor College of Dentistry

April 25, 2013

Dr. Dennis Waguespack, DDS

For some reason I cannot explain why I wanted to write you and Baylor College of Dentistry a letter. I am not good at letter writing, so I hope you understand, I am just trying to express my good feelings and appreciation of the professional service I received over the last year or so.

I have been attending the Baylor College of Dentistry for twenty years and been very pleased with all the services. About two years ago, I reached an important decision concerning the reconstruction of my entire mouth. After some careful and professional consulting with Dr. Nagy, we decided to proceed with a complete restoration of all my mouth.

I was very lucky to be picked / assigned to you.

I just wanted you and Baylor to know how pleased I am with all the extensive work you have performed on me for over a year. I now have totally functional teeth, as well as better aesthetics than anytime in my life. I am proud to smile and show all of my new teeth.

Dr. Waguespack, I wish you the very best in your new practice in Denver. I am so very pleased with your professionalism standards, perfect work, and your leadership with my issues. I would highly recommend you to anyone needing dentistry attention.


Regards

Edwin Stanaland

Edwin Stanaland

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