Root Canal Retreatment: Renew, Restore, and Relieve

At 900ENDO, we combine advanced technology with compassionate care to provide unparalleled root canal treatments and endodontic solutions. Our skilled team is dedicated to preserving your natural smile while ensuring your comfort every step of the way.

Re-Treatment:

When previous root canals fail or are symptomatic

Root canal retreatment is a procedure performed when a previous root canal treatment fails, or if the tooth develops new issues after the initial procedure. Even though root canals are generally successful, in some cases, the infection can return, or problems can arise that necessitate retreatment.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal:

  • Bacteria re-enter the already clean treatment area with either a crown, or a fractured
  • restoration, or a new cavity.
  • Missed or untreated canals.
  • Trauma to the tooth

Retreatment Goals at 900ENDO

Retreatment aims to achieve the same results as initial root canal treatment. We will mechanically remove debris, tissue, and infection from within the canal spaces, then chemically disinfect those spaces, and finally seal them off with a root canal filling so that recontamination will not occur. Before we can do this, we must either remove or go through the existing restoration and previous root canal treatment; sometimes it involves removing existing posts or cores. We then remove the previous filling material so that we can clean and disinfect all canal spaces. Because of the complicated nature of retreatments, you may need a second visit to complete treatment; we usually keep you updated as your treatment is progressing about the possibility of a second visit.

To complete the retreatment, we will seals the canals with a root filling. For a permanent restoration, you will need to go back to your restorative dentist after a few weeks of healing. A damaged or leaking restoration will need to be replaced because a well-fitting final restoration is crucial for the treatment to succeed.
Dr. Savelli and Dr. Uju

The Root Canal Retreatment Procedure

Examination and Diagnosis:

We take X-rays and examine your tooth to determine the reason for the failure. This helps us plan the retreatment process and assess if it’s the right option.

Anesthesia :

Local anesthesia is administered to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues, ensuring you don’t feel any pain during the procedure.

Accessing the Tooth:

We will remove the filling, crown, or restoration that was placed during the initial root canal. This allows access to the pulp chamber again.

Removing the Previous Filling Material:

The old root canal filling material (usually gutta-percha) is carefully removed. This can sometimes be tricky because the material may have set tightly during the initial treatment.

Cleaning and Re-shaping the Canals:

The root canals are cleaned, disinfected, and reshaped to remove any remaining infected tissue. New bacteria or infection in the canal is cleared away, and the canals are thoroughly cleaned.

Filling the Canals Again:

Once the canals are properly cleaned and shaped, we fill the tooth with a new root canal filling material (usually gutta-percha or a similar material). A sealant is placed to ensure there is no way for bacteria to re-enter.

Sealing and Restoration:

After retreatment, the tooth is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling. We usually recommend that all patients return to their general dentist for their continued dental care within two to four weeks. This will enable your dentist to determine if a new crown may be placed to protect the tooth and restore its function.
Patient assistant
Dr. Savelli with patient

Success Rate

Root canal retreatment can be quite successful. Its success depends on several factors such as the complexity of the case, the degree of infection, and the condition of the tooth.

Root canal retreatment is a reliable option to save a tooth that has previously undergone a root canal but is now re-infected or not healing properly. If you’re dealing with persistent pain, swelling, or sensitivity in a tooth that’s had a previous root canal, retreatment might be the solution to restore your tooth’s health and functionality. Please call our office and one of our experienced team members will help guide you.