Root Canal Retreatment in Hilliard, OH

Please note we may not offer this service. Contact (614) 771-6060 to learn more. 

Do You Need Root Canal Retreatment?

If you’ve undergone root canal therapy and are still experiencing discomfort, swelling, or other symptoms, you might require root canal retreatment. Failed or incomplete root canal treatment can occur for various reasons, but there’s no need to worry. Root canal retreatment is a second chance to save your tooth and eliminate pain.

For advice or questions, call Fishinger Dental in Hilliard, OH, at (614) 771-6060 to schedule a consultation with our Hilliard dentist. 

What Is Root Canal Retreatment?

Root canal retreatment is a follow-up procedure when initial root canal therapy fails. This treatment addresses lingering or recurring infections in the treated tooth, ensuring its long-term health.

During a root canal, the infected pulp is removed and the tooth is sealed. However, factors like complex root anatomy, missed canals, or reinfections can necessitate retreatment. The goal is to relieve pain, preserve the natural tooth, and prevent further complications.

Benefits of Root Canal Retreatment 

Opting for root canal retreatment can provide significant benefits, including:

• Pain relief: Alleviates recurring toothache and discomfort.
• Tooth preservation: Avoids the need for extraction.
• Cost-effectiveness: Saves money compared to tooth replacement options.
• Prevention of infection spread: Protects surrounding teeth and gums.
• Improved oral health: Restores functionality and aesthetics.

If you’re dealing with tooth pain after a root canal, contact Fishinger Dental in Hilliard today.

Common Causes of Root Canal Retreatment

Several factors might necessitate retreatment, including:

1. Missed or Complex Canals: Teeth with intricate root structures can make initial treatment challenging. If any canals were overlooked, infection could persist.
2. New Cracks or Fractures: Cracks in the tooth can allow bacteria to re-enter, causing reinfection. Delayed restorations (like crowns) can also leave teeth vulnerable.
3. New Decay or Trauma: Wear and tear, cavities, or gum disease can compromise a previously treated tooth, requiring retreatment.

If you notice pain, swelling, or sensitivity in a treated tooth, call us for an evaluation.

The Root Canal Retreatment Process

Retreatment of a previously treated tooth may be necessary due to different factors such as narrow or curved root canals, complicated canal anatomy, salivary contamination, or undetected canal anatomy. 

The following steps are involved in a typical root canal retreatment procedure:

1. Examination: The dentist will examine the tooth and surrounding area to determine whether retreatment is necessary.
2. Radiographs: X-rays may be taken to examine the tooth’s roots and the extent of any infection.
3. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia will be administered to numb the tooth and surrounding area.
4. Removal of Filling Material: The dentist will remove the previous filling material placed during the initial root canal treatment.
5. Cleaning and Shaping of Canals: Once the filling material has been removed, the dentist will clean out any infected tissue in the canals and shape them in preparation for filling.
6. Filling of Canals: The cleaned and shaped canals are then filled with a biocompatible material, typically gutta-percha, and sealed with cement.
7. Restoration: Depending on the extent of decay or damage before and after the retreatment procedure, your dentist may place a crown or other restoration on top of your tooth to protect it from further damage.

Post-Procedure Care and Measures

After undergoing root canal retreatment, it’s crucial to take care of your treated tooth to ensure a successful recovery. You may experience some discomfort and sensitivity in the area for a few days following the procedure, but this should subside gradually.

Proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery. Follow these tips to promote healing and ensure success:

• Avoid chewing with the treated tooth until the permanent crown is placed.
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing regularly.
• Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by your dentist.
• Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing and finalize restorations.