4 steps to preserve a tooth that has been retreated with root canal therapy

As an endodontist, Dr. Darlene Davis has the specialized skill and experience to provide many advanced services. These include retreatment of teeth that were previously treated with root canal therapy. When searching for a “dentist near me in Dacula, Georgia, to treat a reinfected tooth,” Soft Touch Endodontics has a long history of successfully restoring teeth that fail to heal properly post-treatment. While our team in Suwanee positions you well for success, here are four ways to put infection behind you once and for all and maintain the sustained health of your retreated tooth.

1 – Understand your risks to avoid complications

Sometimes, teeth may not heal due to narrow root canals or other anatomical complexities. In turn, some canals may be missed during initial treatment. These challenges are, of course, beyond your control. However, it is important to recognize the potentially avoidable reasons your tooth may not have healed properly or may have become reinfected. These reasons range from inconsistent and inadequate oral hygiene to a delay in restoring the treatment with a permanent dental crown. Do not repeat history. Maintain healthy hygiene practices and adhere to any instructions provided by our team – including those related to follow-up visits.

2 – Practice oral care for successful retreatment

No recovery following retreatment would be complete without brushing your teeth, gums, tongue, and other areas that harbor bacteria with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-containing toothpaste. You should also floss your teeth at least once a day, otherwise it’s estimated that around one-third of the surface of each tooth is missed. When food particles, harmful bacteria, and plaque are not removed, your tooth is vulnerable to future infection. The more we treat the same tooth, the less likely we will be able to preserve it. Repeated procedures weaken the tooth. So, be consistent in brushing, flossing, and oral care, and combine that with regular dentist visits. Even the best home care is no substitute for professional cleanings and other services at the dentist’s office.

4 – Maintain follow-up appointments

Temporary restorations placed during your retreatment procedure are not meant to last forever. In fact, they are not designed to last longer than a month. These restorations can leave your tooth vulnerable to fracture. Your tooth may become reinfected, as bacteria can seep back into the tooth. To protect against this complication, return to your dentist as our team has directed. During this visit, your treated tooth will be restored. This step usually involves the placement of a permanent dental crown. The crown strengthens the weakened tooth and helps to prevent disease-causing bacteria and germs from reinfecting the tooth.

5 – Consider and alter damaging habits

Chewing on hard objects can lead to fractures and dislodged fillings, and may even result in the need for emergency dental care. So, it’s important to know how you use your teeth. Use proper utensils for eating, and avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages. Be mindful of when you chew on ice, gum, or your fingernails. If bruxism (chronic teeth grinding) is suspected, wearing a nightguard or oral appliance is important to prevent your teeth and restorations from becoming chipped, fractured, and otherwise damaged.

Soft Touch Endodontics can save previously treated teeth. In fact, Dr. Davis may even recommend surgical procedures such as apicoectomy as a treatment alternative or following failed retreatment. There is still hope for your tooth! Contact our Dacula, GA area office in Suwanee today at (770) 212-9771 to speak with a member of our team.

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