Root Canal Retreatment
Chicago, IL
At Cameo Dental Specialists, our goal is to help you maintain the best possible oral health.
Unfortunately, extensive tooth decay and infection can put your teeth at risk. If an infection spreads to the innermost part of the tooth, “the pulp,” it can cause immense pain and discomfort. Ultimately, it can threaten the life of a tooth. We always try to save a tooth from extraction. If you have an infection within the pulp, we may recommend root canal therapy. If you find the same tooth bothering you in the months and years that follow your root canal, you may need retreatment.
WHAT IS A ROOT CANAL?
During a root canal, a specialist at Cameo will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area and eliminate discomfort. Next, we use a small drill to access the inside of the tooth and clear away any damaged or diseased pulp. Once all the problematic material is removed, we flush out the area with an antimicrobial solution to reduce your risk of further infection. We then dry the empty chamber and fill it with a rubber-like material known as gutta-percha.
After the tooth has been properly prepared, we will close the opening with a temporary filling. A tooth that has undergone a root canal can become brittle and unstable. To protect the tooth, we must cap it with a dental crown. The fabrication process typically takes a few weeks. Once your crown is ready, we will permanently bond it to the enamel.
WHAT IS ROOT CANAL RETREATMENT?
Many root canals can last a lifetime with the proper care. However, retreatment may be necessary if problems persist. It is the last chance we have at saving a damaged tooth. You may need retreatment if:
- You have restricted canals that trap infection-causing bacteria.
- You did not initially receive a dental crown and left the tooth susceptible to further infection.
- There is a new crack or fracture in the enamel.
- There is a new infection due to a cracked or broken crown.
During retreatment, a specialist at Cameo will remove the crown or filling to access the gutta percha. We will then remove the gutta-percha and carefully examine the canals. We will then remove any additional infected material. After we completely rework the canals, they will again be filled with gutta-percha. We will then place another temporary filling.
AFTER YOUR ROOT CANAL RETREATMENT
Every patient is different, but you will receive a set of detailed post-operative instructions. If everything goes according to plan, any swelling, soreness, and pain should subside within a week or two. We will ask you to schedule a follow-up appointment, so we can monitor your process and place another dental crown.
You should pay special attention to your retreated tooth during your oral hygiene routine. Proper brushing and flossing can prevent future complications. Regular checkups and professional cleanings are also an important part of your oral health.