With proper care, teeth that have undergone root canal treatment can last a lifetime. However, it’s possible for these teeth to heal improperly, leading to pain or disease months or even years after treatment. If this happens, you have a second chance to save the tooth with endodontic retreatment. This additional procedure can alleviate dental pain or discomfort and promote healing.
Why Endodontic Retreatment May Be Necessary
There are several reasons why a tooth might not heal as expected after the initial treatment. These include:
Narrow or curved canals were not treated during the initial procedure.
Complicated canal anatomy went undetected in the first procedure.
The placement of the crown or other restoration was delayed following the endodontic treatment.
The restoration did not prevent salivary contamination to the inside of the tooth.
New decay can expose the root canal filling material to bacteria, causing a new infection in the tooth.
A loose, cracked, or broken crown or filling can expose the tooth to new infection.
A tooth sustains a fracture.
Patient Resources
Endodontic Retreatment Evaluation

When considering endodontic retreatment at one of our offices, our experienced endodontist will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the most appropriate course of action for your specific case. During the evaluation, our team will start by reviewing your dental history and discussing any concerns or discomfort you may be experiencing. We will then perform a detailed examination, often including advanced imaging such as X-rays or digital scans, to assess the condition of the previously treated tooth and identify any underlying issues. Our goal is to pinpoint the cause of the problem and tailor a customized retreatment plan to address it effectively. We understand the importance of preserving your natural teeth, and our commitment to patient-centered care ensures that your evaluation for endodontic retreatment is comprehensive, informative, and focused on finding the most suitable solution for your dental needs.
What Should I Expect During Endodontic Retreatment
The procedure involves the following steps:
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Removal of Previous Filling Material: The endodontist removes any infection, cleans and shapes the canals, and places new filling materials.
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Examination of the Tooth: The tooth is carefully examined for additional canals or new infection.
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Cleaning and Shaping the Canals: The canals are cleaned and shaped in preparation for the new filling material.
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Placement of New Filling Material: New filling material is placed in the canals.
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Sealing the Tooth: The opening is then sealed with a temporary filling. The tooth should then be restored with a more permanent restoration to seal and protect it.
Post Treatment Care

We want to ensure your recovery is as smooth and comfortable as possible. Following the procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity in the treated tooth, which is perfectly normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. It’s essential to follow the post-treatment care instructions provided by our experienced endodontic team. These instructions typically include maintaining good oral hygiene practices, avoiding chewing on hard or crunchy foods until fully healed, and attending any scheduled follow-up appointments. Our team will closely monitor your progress to ensure the treated tooth heals properly. With proper care and attention, you’ll be able to enjoy a pain-free and fully functional smile. Your comfort and well-being are our top priorities.
Retreatment Overview Video
We invite you to schedule a consultation to discuss Endodontic Retreatment further.
 Our compassionate staff will address any concerns you may have, explain the procedure in more detail, and create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Take the first step towards a saving your natural teeth.