You have been referred for a re treatment, what does that mean? Sometimes a tooth that has had an endodontic procedure does not heal or has a new problem develop. When this happens, even years after successful treatment, re treatment can save the natural tooth one more time.
Re treatments can be more challenging than providing initial treatment, and for this reason most dentists refer patients needing re treatment to endodontists. Dr. Burkett is a board certified endodontist who has over twenty years experience re treating teeth. He will discuss your options and the chances of success in your case before beginning the re treatment. Re treated teeth can function well for years. Saving a natural tooth is always the best option.
During re treatment Dr. Burkett will remove the crown, post, and core materials already in the tooth to permit new access to the root canal. The canal filling from the previous treatment will be removed and the canal will be the thoroughly cleaned and shaped. Dr. Burkett will use his operating microscope to examine the canal, and magnify and illuminate deep into the root canals of your tooth. Frequently, the operating microscope allows Dr. Burkett to see the source of the problem, discover additional canals, or unusual shapes that require treatment.
After cleaning and shaping the canals, Dr. Burkett will fill them with a sealing material and place a temporary filling in the crown of the tooth. If the canals are untreatable or blocked, endodontic surgery might be necessary and recommended. When the procedure is complete, you will want to return to your dentist. He will complete the restoration with a permanent filling, and a new crown to restore your natural tooth to full function. Nothing works as well as a natural tooth for chewing, biting and keeping other teeth in place. Through re treatment we are given one more chance to keep our own natural teeth for as long as possible. |
Endodontic Re-treatment