My front tooth had a root canal 20+ years ago. My dentist said it's failing. Can I have it redone without going toothless?

Question

I have an abscess above the front top right tooth. It's popped and gone down in size barely noticeable at this point (pin size). Since it's my front tooth and I'm a nurse I really CAN'T go toothless. What are my options!?

Paul D. Kantor, DDS · Answer

Teeth with previously treated root canals can often be retreated successfully. I would see an endodontist (root canal specialist) to see what your options are.

Jeffrey Green, DDS · Answer

Many times a root canal can be retreated and you can keep the tooth.  If the filling material in the canal is just leaking at the root end, then it may just a matter of reinstrumenting and refilling the canal.  If it is because a crack or split has developed in the root then in many caes it can't be repaired and must be extracted to eleiminate the abscess.  Most dentists can determine the reason for failure or you might seek out an endodontist who is a specialist in root canals.

My front tooth had a root canal 20+ years ago. My dentist said it's failing. Can I have it redone without going toothless?

Answers (2)

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