What is Endodontic Retreatment?

Following initial root treatment the tooth may last a lifetime with appropriate care. However sometimes the tooth that has been treated may not completely heal. There is also the possibility a tooth treated years earlier may become reinfected and become painful.

If this is the case it is often possible to repeat the root treatment and enable you to further preserve your tooth.

Why do I need another endodontic procedure?

A tooth may not heal after the first line treatment for a number of reasons including:

• Narrow or curved canals that were not able to be fully treated initially. 

• The tooth may have complicated canal anatomy that was undetected first time round

• The placement of the permanent restoration was delayed following the endodontic treatment

• The initial treatment did not prevent salivary contamination to the inside of the tooth, or it was insufficiently disinfected.

Alternatively a new problem can jeopardise the previous successful root treatment. For example:

• Secondary decay can occur which may lead to bacteria ingress causing a new infection

• Loss or failure of the current restoration (loose, cracked or broken) may cause a new infection

• The tooth may suffer trauma resulting in a fracture to the root structure

During retreatment, typically the old crown/filling is removed to gain access to the previous root filling material and pulp chamber. The tooth is then examined for any additional anatomy that may have been initially not seen. The operating microscope is invaluable for this as it allows us often to see more than was initially seen.

The old root canal material is removed and the original canals and any new canals observed are cleaned and shaped to place a new root filling material. The tooth may then be restored with a short term temporary restoration until signs of healing. Following signs of healing a new crown or restoration should then be placed to further protect the tooth.

Is retreatment the best choice for me? 

It is my philosphy that wherever possible it is best to save your natural tooth. A retreated tooth can often provide function for many more years

Continual advancement in technology and evidence based medicine means that our techniques and success rates are constantly improving. This may mean we have more equipment and knowledge at our disposal to improve on what was done the first time.

Unfortunately as with all dental procedures there are never any guarantees and it is important that all options are considered and long term suitability discussed for each individual case.

How much will the procedure cost?  

The cost can vary depending on each case and its complexities. The procedure is more involved than the initial root treatment as time must be spent removing the previous root filling material as well as searching for further anatomy that may have led to failure. Therefore the cost is usually more than the initial root treatment to reflect the time spent aiming to achieve the best result possible.

What are the alternatives to endodontic retreatment?  

Sadly the only alternative option is to have the tooth extracted. Following this there are a number of options to replace the missing tooth including Dental Implants, Fixed bridges or removable partial dentures to maintain adequate function for chewing and aesthetics. The choice between these depends on the health of the surrounding teeth and gums and each individuals personal desires.