This patient presented today with a dull, radiating ache in the lower right quadrant. Clinical examination finds #29 sensitive to percussion, normal probings with prior RCT (30 years). A short obturation is evident. Adjacent teeth #30 & #28 have normal pulps . #29 is diagnosed with Prior RCT & Symptomatic Apical Periodontitis. Retreatment is recommended & completed.
I think that it is great that a root canal, done sometime in the late 70's, can be retreated, using modern techniques and equipment and be functional for another 30-40 years. Unless that root is fractured, there is nothing better than a natural tooth.