Unfortunately, not every root canal treatment is successful. Sometimes another attempt to save the tooth, i.e. a second root canal treatment, may be necessary. And what are the reasons for this, the course and the cost of the treatment.
Want to prevent the need for root canal treatment? Read: "How to strengthen your teeth?".
Reasons for re-endo, i.e. repeated root canal treatment
There is no single cause that is associated with the need for repeated root canal treatment. These are related, for example, to the renewal or persistence of inflammation in the tissues. Sometimes dentists decide to take this step to protect a previously treated tooth.
However, the most common reason is the onset of acute inflammation in the tooth. This can be caused, for example, by inadequate cleaning of the root canals. Dentists, of course, always try to do everything right, but in some cases this is very difficult. The canals can have numerous branches, almost invisible to the eye, and a complicated structure. Fortunately, it is now possible to treat teeth under the microscope. You will read more about this later in this article.
Dental canals can also be underfilled. Here too, complex tooth structure or obstruction of the canals, among other things, gets in the way. Re-endo can be ordered to prevent future inflammation and thus prevent extraction.
Further reasons for repeated root canal treatment are Chronic inflammatory lesions in tissues other than the pulp. These do not give pain, hence are difficult to detect. An X-ray is necessary to ensure that they are not occurring.
Dentists also order a re-endo when patients opt for prosthetic treatment or even veneers! For these treatments, it is essential that all teeth are in the best possible condition. Read also our article: Polish prosthodontist in the UK - when is it worth making an appointment, what does it look like and how much does it cost?
Note - repeat endodontic treatment is not always possible
You will not be able to re-treat a tooth with a root canal if it is too badly damaged.
A cracked or broken root is also a contraindication. Re-endo cannot be carried out either if the inflammation is too advanced.
Secondary root canal treatment - course
Wondering what the course of a repeat root canal treatment is? It is necessary to remove the old material and clean the canals. He then repeats the same steps as for the first treatment. Everything, of course, is done under anaesthesia - so patients no longer need to be afraid of the procedure. Read: "Computer anaesthesia in the UK - what it is and how much it costs".
In our practice, we have a way to minimise the risk of Incorrectly cleaned or underfilled root canals. We use the latest technology, such as treatment under a microscope. Thanks to this, dentists are able to see absolutely everything. The canal system, its branches and branches will no longer be an obstacle to treatment. Read more: "Root canal treatment under the microscope in the UK".
Re-endo treatment costs
As with the first attempt, the price of a repeat root canal treatment depends on several factors. This will be the condition of the tooth or the number of canals. Many patients are concerned about the high cost.
In our office, the prices for repeated root canal treatment (this is always done under the microscope) are as follows: £270 for incisors, £300 for premolars and £360 for molars (including X-ray). To the above prices, the cost of restoring the tooth with composite must also be added. If the price of treatment scares you - rest assured, we have a solution.
We know that these are not amounts that are comfortable for everyone. That's why we offer the option to spread the treatment sum (over £350) over 12 instalments with zero interest, or 18, 24 or more - in which case the interest rate is 7.9%.
As you can see, cost is no longer such an issue! With our instalment scheme, you will pay between £35 and £42.5 per month for professional microscope treatment.
Read more about our instalment system in our article: "Teeth on credit: dental treatment on hire purchase" or call us. Importantly, it is 100% safe and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA number 619628).
Take care of prevention
Remember that root canal treatment, as well as the re-endo, is the so-called last resort for the tooth. So take care of your teeth, brush at least twice a day and don't skip flossing. Make sure you visit your dentist regularly. Then your dentist will be able to react immediately to any changes!