Occasionally, a not heal as expected after initial endodontic treatment for a variety of reasons. These could include complicated canal anatomy or additional canals that weren't located in the first root canal procedure, the delay in placement of a crown or other restoration, or an insufficient restoration. Sometimes new problems may jeopardize a tooth that was already treated, such as new decay, a loose, cracked or broken filling, or a tooth fracture. In these cases, revision of the previous treatment may be performed to save the tooth.
During endodontic retreatment, the endodontist will regain access to the root canal filling material. After removing the canal filling, the endodontist will clean the canals and carefully examine the inside of your tooth using magnification and illumination, searching for any additional canals, hidden fractures or unusual anatomy that requires treatment.
After cleaning and disinfecting the root canal system, the endodontist will fill and seal the canals and place a temporary filling in the tooth. As with the original root canal procedure, you will need to return to your dentist as soon as possible to have a new crown or other restoration placed on the tooth to protect it.
If retreatment is not an option, endodontic surgery should be considered to save the natural tooth.
