Endodontic Retreatment Saves Teeth in Pembroke Pines, FL
While many root canal procedures last a lifetime, some rare patients find their pain returns within a few weeks. This is an unfortunate situation resulting from a root canal that has not healed properly, but it can be easily treated by a process called endodontic retreatment.
Patients in the Pembroke Pines, FL area are in luck if they experience discomfort or complications after a root canal. Dr. Milton Ruiz is specially trained in diagnosing infection and has years of experience with endodontic retreatment. He can help you find fast relief from any lingering or renewed pain following your root canal.
Like a Root Canal, Endodontic Retreatment Can Save Your Teeth
When infection or decay enters the interior components of your tooth, the options are limited. A root canal will remove that infection or decay, but the only other treatment is removing the tooth. As with the initial root canal, lingering or returning pain after a root canal may indicate an infection inside the tooth, which has few effective solutions other than removing the infected tooth or the decay and infections developing inside the tooth.
If endodontic treatment is right for you, the process begins with removing the crown and root canal filling material. Your specialist will then reclean the interior of the tooth, removing any infection or decay, while also looking closely with the aid of special lighting and magnifying tools to identify any smaller, overlooked canals or unusual anatomy that might need to be treated.
After your canals are cleaned or reshaped, the tooth is restored with filling material then capped with a new crown. Some rare cases could involve small surgical incisions to gain access to narrow canals or areas deeper in the jaw. In those cases, a stitch or two may be necessary to aid with healing. In most cases, any discomfort during the recovery period is treated with over-the-counter medications and ice packs. Once your mouth is healed, you will return to Dr. Ruiz, who will do an examination and prepare you for a new crown placement.
If you experience pain or discomfort following a root canal, Dr. Ruiz can help you understand the options available to you and provide fast, effective care. Call Pines Dental Associates today for a consultation for endodontic retreatment at (954) 715-4660.
FAQs
What is the root canal retreatment procedure like?
Dr. Ruiz will remove the crown and root canal filling material first. He will then re-clean the tooth interior, removing any decay and infection. Then he will restore the tooth with filling material and insert a new crown. On rare occasions, a small surgical incision may be necessary to access narrow canals or areas that lie deeper in the jaw. Then, stitches will be used.
Is retreatment the best choice for me?
If a tooth can be saved, that is always the best option, as no restoration can beat real teeth. Re-treated teeth can function well for years, even for life. A problem that had not been visible during the original procedure may have become more prominent and would be easier to resolve during retreatment. Technologies that hadn’t existed during the first treatment may also make retreatment more successful.
Why would I need endodontic retreatment?
If your treated tooth has not healed properly due to narrow or curved canals not being treated; complicated canal anatomy going undetected; the placement of the crown or other restoration getting delayed; or the restoration not preventing salivary contamination to the inside of the tooth during the first treatment, another procedure may become necessary. New problems like recent decay, fractures, and loose, cracked, or broken crowns or fillings can expose the tooth to new infection, necessitating retreatment.
Are there any alternatives to retreatment?
Endodontic surgery is an option when non-surgical retreatment is not, or it could be performed in conjunction with retreatment. This surgery involves accessing the root tip after making an incision. Discuss your options with Dr. Ruiz to make an informed decision.
Is a root canal retreatment painful?
The procedure is virtually painless. Recovery is also more comfortable than with a tooth extraction. You can regain your normal smile once treatment has been completed.
Dr. Milton Ruiz
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A respected general dentist with over 25 years of experience, Dr. Milton Ruiz earned his dental degree from Tufts Dental School in Boston. He has completed over 500 hours of continuing education to stay at the forefront of modern dentistry and is highly skilled in various areas, including cosmetic dentistry, root canals, sleep apnea treatments, orthodontics, and restorative care. Certified in Invisalign and experienced in oral conscious sedation, he ensures a broad spectrum of patient care with a focus on comfort and modern techniques.
