With appropriate care, endodontically treated teeth will last as long as other natural teeth. But sometimes, an endodontically treated tooth doesn't heal properly. If so, endodontic retreatment may be the next step.

Incomplete healing is most often caused by recontamination of the canal system. This can happen if placement of the final restoration is delayed or new decay forms under a previously successful restoration. Untreated canal space is the second most common cause of incomplete healing. 

Following an examination and Cone Beam CT scan, a diagnosis will be made. If retreatment is deemed necessary, Dr. Biggerstaff will reopen your tooth to gain access to the previously treated root canal system. The problem discovered through the examination and diagnosis will be treated. Retreatment usually takes two appointments.