Abstract

The main goal of endodontic treatment is the correct diagnosis, optimal mechanical and chemical preparation and three-dimensional obturation of the root canal. The causes of the endodontic failures can be variations in the anatomy of the teeth, the presence of additional root canals, lateral canals, depend on technical, biological and iatrogenic factors which contribute to accomplishment of treatment. During nonsurgical endodontic retreatment, endodontic instruments are forced apically to remove the root canal filling material and regain canal patency. Undiscriminating burrowing down the canal in the apical direction may be fruitless and harmful. To avoid complications, the dentin overhanging the canal orifice must be removed and an unobstructed access established to the root filling material, so as to facilitate its removal. Re-instrumentation of the filled canal must take into consideration the nature of the filling material and the physical properties of endodontic instruments, as well as the dynamic aspects of canal preparation. This article discusses the mechanical considerations pertaining to root canal retreatment and outlines a step by step rationale approach to retreatment.

Description