In many cases, a severely decayed tooth can be repaired with a root canal treatment. This restorative procedure can provide relief from discomfort. Occasionally, though, this tooth can become re-infected. While this can be frustrating, there are ways to resolve the problem. Your Omni Endodontics team in El Paso, TX, offers retreatment that can help save your smile. This procedure can prevent the need for more extensive dental work, such as an extraction.
Root canal therapy may be used to treat a variety of problems. If you have severe dental decay, a deep fracture, or you have lost a dental crown, your dentist may recommend that this be done. This treatment often has a negative connotation, but it is a helpful treatment that can relieve pain and save your smile. Before this procedure, sedation will be used to help you feel comfortable. Then, the damaged pulp will be taken out. Then, the space will be cleaned, and a stronger material will be added. The procedure will take about an hour and may require a few days to recover. As you recover, be sure to avoid eating foods that can irritate the area. Don’t forget to do your oral hygiene routine during this time as well.
Although root canals on average have a high success rate, there are some circumstances in which you may need a retreatment. If the area did not heal properly or you begin to experience discomfort and pain again, it may be necessary to have this done again. To do this, the space will need to be reopened and thoroughly cleaned. The dentist will take a closer look at the tooth to determine what may need to be fixed. An antibacterial filling may be added to help disinfect the area. Then, a crown will need to be added for extra protection. A retreatment can be done two to three more times if not successful. If the area becomes infected after this, though, alternative restorations may be discussed.
As a last option, your dentist may recommend removing the problem tooth if retreatments have not fully healed the tooth. This is usually not the first choice, because removing one of your pearly whites can disrupt your smile’s function and appearance. However, if a tooth continues to become reinfected or is causing you discomfort, it may be best to remove it. Prosthetic replacement options can be discussed once the area has recovered.
If a toothache has returned, you may need a root canal retreatment. You can schedule an appointment with us by calling 915.990.3636.
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