Dental Code D3347: Retreatment of previous root canal therapy - premolar

Dental Code D3347 refers to the retreatment of a previous root canal therapy specifically for premolar teeth. Root canal retreatment is a dental procedure performed when a previously treated root canal becomes infected, fails to heal properly, or requires further intervention.

On average, patients pay $1200 for this D3347 service at the dentist's office, with as little as $760 charged for this in less expensive cities and as much as $1500 in more expensive cities.

Low cost of living	Medium cost of living	High cost of living
Memphis (Tennessee), Cincinnati (Ohio)	Miami (Florida), Denver (Colorado), Austin (Texas)	(New York (New York), San Francisco (California)
$760	$1200	$1500

However, the price for the service D3347 depends not only on the region where you live, but also varies from dentist to dentist. Therefore, it makes sense to compare prices before choosing a dentist. The best way to do this price comparison is at Dr. BestPrice and save a lot of money. 

In the initial step, your dentist will thoroughly examine the affected tooth, reviewing your dental history and analyzing any symptoms or concerns you may have. X-rays may be taken to assess the condition of the tooth's root canal system. The dentist will evaluate the need for retreatment based on the presence of infection, persistent pain, or signs of a failed root canal.

To ensure your comfort throughout the procedure, your dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth. This helps alleviate any potential pain or discomfort during the retreatment process. Local anesthesia involves the use of a small needle to inject an anesthetic solution near the tooth. The anesthetic numbs the area, preventing you from feeling any pain during the procedure.

Once the area is numb, your dentist will create an opening in the tooth crown, providing access to the root canal system. This step involves carefully removing any existing dental restoration, such as a dental filling or crown, to reach the previously treated root canal. The dentist will use specialized dental instruments to create an opening, ensuring precise access to the root canal.

In this stage, the dentist will carefully remove the existing dental filling material and any other obstructions present within the root canal. This allows for a clear view of the root canal space and ensures proper cleaning and disinfection. The removal process involves the use of dental files and irrigation solutions. The files are inserted into the root canal to remove the existing filling material and to clear away any debris or infected tissue. During the removal process, the dentist may employ different types of dental files, such as hand files or rotary files, to effectively eliminate the previous filling material. These files are gently maneuvered within the root canal to scrape away the filling and ensure thorough cleaning. Additionally, irrigation solutions are used to flush out the root canal, helping to dislodge and remove any remaining debris or bacteria.

With access to the root canal system, the dentist will meticulously clean and disinfect the infected or compromised areas. Specialized instruments are used to remove any bacteria, infected tissue, or debris that may have accumulated within the root canal. The dentist may use a combination of mechanical cleaning techniques, such as the use of files or rotary instruments, and irrigating solutions to flush out the root canal and eliminate bacteria.

After the cleaning process, the dentist will shape the root canal space to facilitate the placement of a new filling material called gutta-percha. Shaping involves using progressively larger dental files to widen and shape the root canal, ensuring adequate space for the gutta-percha. Gutta-percha is a rubber-like material used to seal and fill the cleaned root canal, preventing the re-entry of bacteria. It is placed into the prepared canal using specialized techniques, such as lateral condensation or vertical compaction, to ensure a tight seal.

Once the root canal is filled, a temporary filling material is placed to seal the access opening. This temporary filling protects the treated root canal until a permanent dental restoration, such as a dental filling or crown, can be placed. Temporary filling materials are usually made of a soft, pliable material that hardens over time. They provide a temporary seal to prevent bacterial recontamination while allowing the tooth to heal.

In the final step, the tooth is restored with a dental filling or crown to provide strength, protection, and aesthetic appeal. Your dentist will discuss the appropriate restoration options with you based on the specific needs of your tooth. Dental fillings are commonly used for premolar teeth when the tooth structure is sufficiently intact. However, if the tooth is extensively damaged or weakened, a dental crown may be recommended to provide additional support and protection.

Dental Code D3347 represents the retreatment of a previous root canal therapy for premolar teeth. The procedure involves a series of steps, including evaluation and diagnosis, local anesthesia, accessing the root canal, removal of filling material, cleaning and disinfection, shaping and obturation, temporary filling, and restoration. By addressing failed or infected root canals, retreatment can help save a tooth that would otherwise require extraction. It is essential to consult with a qualified dentist to determine if retreatment is necessary and to receive the appropriate care to restore your dental health.

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