Solving Root Canal Problems at First Choice Dental of NJ
When Old Root Canals Go Bad
Root canal treatment does not always succeed, and when it falls short, further intervention may be needed. An evaluation by the dentist serves, in part, to establish what is causing a particular dental problem and to assess whether that problem is amenable to correction.
What Can Make Root Canal Treatment Fail?
One of the main reasons root canal treatment can fail is if all of the tooth’s canals were not identified and treated, or else were not completely cleaned. These are problems that can often be corrected with retreatment.
Salivary bacteria represent another potential source of treatment failure, as their infiltration into the treatment area can result in infection of the root canals and, over time, the adjacent bone and gum tissue. This bacterial leakage typically occurs when a crown or filling does not fit properly, or when new decay develops in the tooth. The quality of the root canal seal plays a significant role in how quickly contamination progresses — a poorly sealed canal allows bacteria to penetrate rapidly, whereas an effective seal slows or prevents that process. In most cases, retreatment can address this form of compromise.
Retreatment Goals at First Choice Dental of NJ
When retreatment is performed, the objective mirrors that of the original root canal procedure. The canal spaces are mechanically cleared of debris, tissue, and infectious material, after which chemical disinfection is applied to those same spaces. A root canal filling is then placed to seal the canals and prevent recontamination from occurring.
To begin the retreatment process, the existing restoration and prior root canal work must first be taken apart, which may require creating an access opening through the current crown or removing any posts or cores that are in place. Once disassembly is accomplished, the previously placed filling material is removed so that all canal spaces can be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. In some cases, a temporary medication is placed within the canals before the procedure is concluded at a subsequent appointment.
Once the retreatment is complete, Dr. Donn places a root filling to seal the canals. After a few weeks of healing, a return visit to your restorative dentist will be necessary to receive a permanent restoration. Because a properly fitted final restoration is essential to the success of the treatment, any restoration that is damaged or no longer sealing adequately will require replacement.