The American Association of Endodontists reports that root canal procedures have an extremely high success rate. Yet, some patients have an endodontically treated tooth that fails to heal — or is causing pain — months or even years after successful treatment. When this occurs, the tooth can often be saved by root canal retreatment.
There are several reasons why a tooth may not heal after the initial root canal therapy. The anatomic structure of the tooth’s canal system can make treatment difficult. Some narrow or curved canals may go undetected. Tooth trauma can also cause a fractured root, leading to an infection or cyst. New decay can expose the root canal filling material to bacteria, causing a new infection.
A loose, cracked or broken dental crown or filling can cause new problems, as well. A second root canal may be needed if coronal leakage occurs. This can occur when decay and bacteria attack a tooth underneath a loose filling or a damaged, poorly fitting crown. Coronal leakage can cause contamination and failure of the initial root canal therapy.
Discover friendly, experienced endodontic retreatment with Anna Munné, DDS. Call 713-795-4666 or use our convenient Request an Appointment form. Our endodontic retreatment patients come to us from Brazoria County, Montgomery County, Harris County and Fort Bend County, TX, including Missouri City, Pearland, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Houston, Bellaire and nearby communities.