Hi Marilyn,

I have a question as to why the endodontist doesn't ususally retreat old root canals? Not seeing your x-ray and not having all the facts, makes it difficult for me to disagree or agree with their position, but it is very common to retreat root canals. Putting in posts, building up the tooth and then placing a new crown after retreating the canal is also a common procedure.

Have they mentioned why they think that the root canal failed after all of this time? The fact that it lasted 40+ years shows that it was done well, so I wonder why it failed. The length of time since it was originally done should not have a bearing on the decision.

Doing nothing is not an option and that I agree with. I also agree with Nelie that if you do end up doing an extraction, hyperbaric oxygen is definitely indicated.

If you get more information, don't hesitate to send me an email and we can discuss this further by email or phone.

Jerry