A root canal retreat is sometimes necessary when a previously endodontically treated tooth has a root canal failure. A new root canal is done for a previously treated tooth. Hopefully, the procedure will be successful and avoid root canal surgery or worse, dental extraction. It's also a lot less traumatic than the alternatives. In most cases, a patient suffering with a failed root canal is experiencing root canal pain. Treatment may be necessary because of new decay or there may be untreated areas in one or more of the canals.

        When it's being done a second time on the same tooth, a root canal retreat is significantly more difficult than the first root canal procedure. The canals no longer have their natural shape since they were previously altered by the original dentist who treated the tooth. There are often unnaturally directed paths or incompletely filled areas inside previously treated canals. It requires a great deal more patience to redo these previously altered teeth.

         In most cases, a root canal retreat involves a tooth that has had a core build up and dental crown. Removing the crown and carefully removing the core build up without damaging the pulp chamber or canals takes time and special care. Because of the added time and difficulty, a this procedure is more costly than a regular root canal. You can usually count on paying an additional 50% because of the added difficulty and time involved for the dentist to complete the procedure.

        Unfortunately, because the tooth has already had a failure, there is an decreased chance of success. However, careful root canal retreat can often be successful. The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. If you are concerned about a previously treated tooth and would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky or root canal dentist, Dr. Smith, make an appointment at 404-874-7428.