Woodbury Endodontic Retreatment

Restoring dental health through expert retreatment

A second chance to save your tooth

With proper care, root canal-treated teeth can last a long time. However, there is a possibility of improper healing, leading to pain or disease months or even years later. In such cases, retreatment offers a second chance to save the tooth. This additional procedure aims to alleviate dental pain or discomfort and promote healing.

Common reasons for retreatment include bacterial microleakage due to recurrent cavities or compromised restorations, incomplete treatment of root canal anatomy, structural damage, or persistent infections. Endodontic retreatment involves removing the previous fillings, thoroughly disinfecting the canal, and resealing it.

Our Unique Approach

Central Endodontics of Long Island, endodontic retreatment is approached with precision and care to save your natural tooth and restore your dental health. Our Woodbury Endodontist uses advanced tools like CBCT imaging and dental microscopes to identify hidden issues such as missed canals or fractures that may have been overlooked during the initial treatment. This technology allows for a more accurate and thorough diagnosis, ensuring we address all underlying problems.

The retreatment process involves carefully removing the old root canal filling, followed by a thorough cleaning and disinfection of the canals to eliminate any bacteria or infection. We ensure that every canal is fully treated and sealed to prevent further complications.

We prioritize open communication throughout the retreatment process. Dr. Yoo will explain each step, provide detailed care instructions, and ensure you feel confident in the care you are receiving. Our focus is on achieving a successful outcome while making the experience as smooth and comfortable for you as possible.

NY endodontic retreatment central endodontics of long island
woodbury root canal appointment central endodontics of long island

What to expect during your root canal retreatment

1. We will perform a detailed examination, including the use of CBCT scans, to assess the extent of the problem and determine the best course of action.

2. The existing root canal filling material will be removed to allow thorough cleaning and disinfection of the root canals.

3. Using state-of-the-art equipment, we’ll disinfect the canals thoroughly.

4. After cleaning, the canal will be carefully resealed to prevent future infections and promote proper healing.

5. We provide clear post-treatment instructions and may schedule follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and address any concerns.

Advanced technology: How CBCT enhances diagnosis

Our Woodbury Endodontist incorporates advanced technology into every stage of your retreatment. CBCT scans (cone beam computed tomography) provide a detailed 3D view of the tooth, allowing us to detect any hidden canals, fractures, or other complications that might have been missed during the initial treatment.

In addition to CBCT, we use dental microscopes for enhanced visibility during the procedure. These microscopes allow us to examine the tooth’s internal structure with incredible detail, ensuring we clean and seal every canal thoroughly.

Answers to your questions about endodontic retreatment

What is endodontic retreatment, and why might I need it?

Endodontic retreatment is a procedure to address a tooth that has previously undergone root canal therapy but has not healed properly or has developed new problems. Retreatment is necessary when there is a persistent infection, inflammation, or pain, often due to factors like incomplete cleaning of the root canals, undetected canals, or new damage to the tooth’s structure. This procedure gives the tooth another opportunity to heal and can prevent the need for extraction.

What are the risks if I delay retreatment?

If retreatment is delayed, the infection inside the tooth can spread to surrounding tissues, including the bone. This can result in significant pain, swelling, and even abscess formation, which can compromise your overall health. Untreated infections can also lead to the loss of the tooth, requiring extraction. It’s crucial to address the issue early to preserve the tooth and prevent further complications.

How long does the retreatment procedure take, and how many visits will I need?

Endodontic retreatment is more complex than the initial root canal therapy and may take longer. The duration of the procedure typically ranges from 60 to 120 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case. Most retreatments can be completed in one or two visits, but in some cases, additional visits may be necessary to ensure complete cleaning and healing. If an infection is particularly severe, we may place medication inside the tooth and schedule a follow-up appointment to complete the treatment.

What are the chances of success after endodontic retreatment?

While success rates vary depending on the complexity of the case, endodontic retreatment is generally highly successful. Advances in dental technology, such as CBCT scans and dental microscopes, allow us to identify and address the issues that led to the failure of the initial treatment. The success rate of retreatment depends on factors like the extent of the damage, the presence of new infections, and the overall condition of the tooth, but most patients experience relief from pain and infection, and their tooth is saved.

Will I experience pain during or after retreatment?

Our priority is your comfort throughout the procedure. Local anesthesia is used to numb the affected area, so you should not feel pain during the retreatment itself. After the procedure, some mild discomfort or sensitivity is normal, especially when chewing or applying pressure. This discomfort typically subsides within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. If pain persists or worsens, it’s important to contact our office for further evaluation.

How do I care for my tooth after retreatment?

After endodontic retreatment, it’s important to follow all post-procedure instructions to ensure proper healing. This typically includes avoiding hard or crunchy foods for a few days and maintaining excellent oral hygiene to prevent coronal leakage or structural compromisation of the treated tooth. Your endodontist may recommend a new crown or filling to protect the tooth, as it may be more fragile after retreatment. Regular check-ups are crucial to monitor the tooth’s healing process.

Can endodontic retreatment always save the tooth?

While retreatment is often successful in saving a tooth, there are cases where extraction may still be necessary. If the tooth is too damaged or fractured, it may not be possible to restore the tooth through retreatment. However, by using advanced technology and techniques, we maximize the chances of a successful outcome.

Take the first step towards healthier and pain-free oral health

Experience top-tier endodontic care with Central Endodontics of Long Island. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.

Our Hours

Monday
9am-5pm
Tuesday
9am-5pm
Wednesday
9am-5pm
Thursday
9am-5pm
Friday
9am-5pm
Saturday-Sunday
Closed