Root Canal Retreatment Procedure in Studio City & Los Angeles, CA

Save Your Tooth and Avoid Extraction

If you’ve had a root canal procedure before, you may be wondering why you need to undergo the same process again. Welcome to our guide on root canal retreatment — everything you need to know about this procedure is here.

If you’re dealing with severe pain after root canal therapy, contact our Los Angeles & Studio City dentist today by calling (213) 623-2212 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sam Lavi, one of the best dentists in California.

What is a Root Canal Retreatment?

A root canal treatment is a dental procedure that removes infected pulp from the inside of your tooth. In some cases, the initial root canal treatment might not eliminate the infection or address all the complexities within the tooth. This can lead to persistent pain or even new infections in the tooth later on. When this happens, a root canal retreatment becomes necessary.

Root canal retreatment involves revisiting the treated tooth and performing the procedure again. Here’s what the dentist will typically do:

• Access the Canals: Dr. Lavi will remove any existing crown or restoration to access the filling material placed during the initial root canal.
• Remove Previous Filling: The old filling material and debris will be carefully removed to allow access to the canals.
• Clean and Re-shape Canals: The dentist will meticulously clean and disinfect the canals to eliminate any remaining bacteria or infection. They might also need to reshape the canals to allow for proper filling.
• Fill and Seal the Canals: Once cleaned, the canals will be filled with a special material to prevent future infection. The dentist will then seal the opening of the tooth with a temporary filling.
• Permanent Restoration: After healing, a permanent restoration like a crown will be placed on the tooth to protect it and restore full functionality.

When is Root Canal Retreatment Necessary?

Several factors can necessitate a root canal retreatment. Here are some common reasons:

• Incomplete Initial Treatment: Sometimes, the initial root canal treatment might miss one or more canals within the tooth, or leave behind infected pulp tissue. This can lead to persistent or recurring infection.
• Fractures or Cracks: Dental cracks or fractures can expose the inner canals of the tooth to new bacteria, causing re-infection.
• New Decay or Infection: New cavities around the existing fillings or issues like gum disease can introduce new bacteria into the tooth, leading to re-infection.
• Improper Restoration: If a permanent crown or filling placed after the initial root canal isn’t sealed properly, it can allow bacteria to seep back in and cause problems.

If you experience any of the following symptoms after a root canal, it’s crucial to see your dentist to determine if retreatment is necessary:

• Persistent or recurring pain in the treated tooth
• Swelling or tenderness around the tooth
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Visible signs of infection, like pus drainage

Benefits of Root Canal Retreatment

Root canal retreatment offers several advantages over tooth extraction:

• Saves Your Natural Tooth: Preserves the natural tooth structure, which is important for maintaining proper bite function and jawbone health.
• Reduces Pain and Discomfort: Eliminates the source of pain and infection, providing relief from discomfort.
• Improved Oral Health: Prevents the spread of infection to surrounding teeth and tissues.
• Cost-Effective: Generally less expensive than having the tooth extracted and replaced with an implant or bridge.
• Maintains Facial Structure: Natural teeth help support facial structure, preventing sagging or collapse that can occur after tooth loss.

How Does Root Canal Retreatment Work?

Root canal retreatment follows a similar process to the initial root canal but with the added step of removing the previous filling material. Here’s a breakdown of the procedure:

1. Examination and X-rays: The dentist will first examine the tooth and surrounding area to assess the situation. X-rays will be taken to determine the extent of the infection and the anatomy of the canals.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia will be administered to numb the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring comfort throughout the procedure.
3. Accessing the Canals: Any existing crown or restoration will be carefully removed to access the canals.
4. Removing Previous Filling: The dentist will meticulously remove the old filling material and any debris to gain full access to the canals.
5. Cleaning and Re-shaping Canals: This is a crucial step. The dentist will thoroughly clean and disinfect the canals to eliminate lingering bacteria or infections. They might also need to reshape the canals to allow for proper filling with the new material.
6. Filling and Sealing the Canals: Once cleaned and shaped, the canals will be filled with a biocompatible material, typically gutta-percha, to prevent future infection. The dentist will then seal the opening of the tooth with a temporary filling.
7. Permanent Restoration: After a healing period to allow the surrounding tissue to recover, you’ll return for a final step. The dentist will place a permanent restoration, usually a crown, on the tooth to protect it, restore functionality, and improve aesthetics.

Aftercare for Root Canal Retreatment

Following proper aftercare instructions is crucial for a successful recovery after root canal retreatment. Here are some key points to remember:

• Pain Management: You might experience mild discomfort or sensitivity following the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage any discomfort. However, always consult your dentist before taking any medication.
• Dietary Restrictions: Avoid chewing hard or crunchy foods with the treated tooth until fully restored with a permanent crown. This helps prevent any damage to the tooth while it heals.
• Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene practices by brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily This helps remove bacteria and promote healing.
• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist to monitor the healing progress and ensure the permanent restoration fits and functions properly.

Cost of Root Canal Retreatment

The cost of root canal retreatment can vary depending on several factors, including:

• Geographic location
• Complexity of the procedure (number of canals, difficulty of access)
• Experience level of the dentist
• Type of anesthesia used

Generally, root canal retreatment is more expensive than an initial root canal because it involves additional steps like removing the previous filling material. However, it’s typically less than having the tooth extracted and replaced with an implant or bridge.

Here’s a ballpark range: Expect the cost to fall somewhere between $1,000 and $3,000 per tooth. Dental insurance may cover a portion of the cost, so check with your provider to understand your specific coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any alternatives to root canal retreatment?

Yes, there are some alternatives to root canal retreatment. One option is endodontic surgery, which involves removing any infected tissue. However, this procedure isn’t always successful and may require multiple attempts.

Another alternative to root canal therapy is tooth extraction, which eliminates the need for a root canal. However, this option isn’t ideal as it can lead to further dental problems such as shifting teeth and bone loss.

Is root canal retreatment painful?

No, root canal retreatment shouldn’t be painful. Your dentist will use local anesthesia or sedation to numb the area and ensure comfort throughout the procedure.

How long does root canal retreatment take?

The exact time for root canal retreatment can vary depending on the complexity of the case. It usually takes longer than an initial root canal because it involves removing the previous filling material and addressing any additional issues. Generally, expect to be in the dentist’s chair for one to two hours.

Will I be awake for root canal retreatment?

No, you won’t be awake during the procedure. The local anesthetic will numb the area, and some dentists might offer additional sedation options like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you relax further.

Contact Our Los Angeles & Studio City Dentist Today!

If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain after a root canal, don’t hesitate to call our dental office. Our dentist is here to ensure that your oral health is in pristine condition and can ease your pain. Contact Dr. Sam A. Lavi in Los Angeles & Studio City, today by calling us at (213) 623-2212.