Root canal therapy (RCT) is very effective in eliminating decay, infection, and other damage deep inside the tooth — specifically inside the channels or canals that extend from the center of a tooth all the way down its root. But like any medical treatment, complications can interfere, leaving you with persistent symptoms despite root canal treatment.
While uncommon, root canal complications can happen — and that’s when root canal retreatment can help. At Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC, our team specializes in advanced techniques used in root canal retreatment, helping patients preserve their teeth and eliminate symptoms once and for all.
Although root canal therapy removes infected tissue and seals the inside of the tooth, in rare instances, bacteria may re-enter the canal, leading to recurrent symptoms in the tooth and the surrounding tissue. Other times, retreatment is required because not all of the bacteria inside the tooth were removed in the initial treatment.
Both of these complications are typically associated with teeth that have complex root canal systems that are difficult to clean and treat, including canals that are curved, unusually narrow, or even “hidden.” Other infections happen when the crown or filling placed during the root canal is damaged, allowing bacteria to enter the tooth once more.
Most people with a failed root canal have telltale symptoms, like:
Sometimes, there are no obvious symptoms at all. Instead, an infection may be discovered during a routine dental exam or on an X-ray that reveals problems around the root tip — another reason why routine dental exams are so important.
Root canal retreatment features a variety of state-of-the-art tools and techniques to identify hidden infections, assess complex canal anatomy, and retreat the tooth.
The procedure itself is similar to your initial root canal: We remove the crown protecting the tooth, then remove the underlying filling, carefully cleaning all canals — even ones previously hidden.
Once the inside of the tooth is completely cleaned and treated with medications designed to kill germs, the canal surfaces are sealed, and then the tooth is filled and prepared for crown placement. While an existing crown may be replaced on the tooth in some instances, most patients receive a new crown placed during the follow-up visit.
If you suspect that a tooth treated with a root canal is causing problems, don’t put off seeking care. Prompt evaluation by our team is essential for finding relief, improving your oral health, and avoiding tooth loss.
To find out what’s causing your symptoms, call 929-229-0255 or book an appointment online at Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC in New York City today.
