Improper healing may be caused by: Curved or narrow canals that were not treated during the initial treatment Complicated canals that went undetected during the initial treatment. The crown or restoration was not placed within the appropriate amount of time following the procedure. The crown or permanent restoration did not prevent saliva from contaminating the inside of the tooth. In some cases new problems can influence a tooth that was successfully treated New decay can expose the root canal filling material, causing infection. A cracked or loose filling or crown can expose the tooth to new infection. Once retreatment has been indicated, your tooth will be reopened to gain access to the root canal filling material. The restorative material will be removed to access the root canal and your canals will be recleaned. Once cleaned, the canals will be filled and sealed and a temporary filling placed in the tooth. At this point you will need to return to your general dentist as soon as possible in order to have a new crown or permanent restoration placed on the tooth to restore full functionality. What to expect after root canal therapy Your tooth may have mild to moderate discomfort for a few days. The area may be tender for about a week after treatment and your tooth may actually feel "different" than your other teeth for a few weeks to a month. This is normal and is no cause for alarm. The surrounding gum tissue may also be tender due to manipulation during treatment as well as the condition of the area was in when you came into the office. For discomfort, we recommend ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for our patients who can take NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.) Each over-the-counter tablet is 200mg. We recommend taking 3-4 tablets (600-800mg) per dose every 4-6 hours as needed for pain. (Don't exceed 3200mg or 16 tablets in 24 hours.) You may also rinse the area with hot salt water, (1 teaspoon salt in a glass of hot tap water.) It is important NOT to use any heat on the external face. (Example: don't use a heating pad). If anything, place ice on the outside surface of your face in the area where root canal therapy was done. You may brush your teeth as normal; however, avoid chewing with the tooth under treatment for several days. You are not limited in what you can eat, just chew on the opposite side from where the treatment was done. You may be given antibiotics and/or prescription pain pills. Take these as directed on the bottle. The root portion of your tooth has been permanently sealed with gutta percha; however, the top portion or, crown portion, of your tooth has been sealed with a temporary restoration. Your general dentist may only need to place a new filling in this tooth or possibly a crown may be needed depending on the specific tooth and how much tooth structure is left. After your root canal therapy is done with us, you must set up an appointment with your general dentist to get the permanent restoration placed. This will protect your tooth against fracture. Ideally, this should be done within 2 months after root canal therapy. A complete report of treatment done along with an x-ray will be sent to your general dentist for your records at their office. > back to top patient information - procedures - meet the doctors - our location patient forms - referring doctors - home Web Design by PBHS © 2000