It is rare for a tooth that has had a root canal to need a second treatment. But if a previously treated tooth of yours is sensitive or painful, or you are experiencing swelling, you should contact our dentists to schedule a root canal retreatment. You may go months or even years without experiencing any symptoms, and again, instances of reinfection are rare. However, this problem may occur if a new infection has set in because of new tooth decay or damage. Or the problem may be the result of the restoration being improperly placed or the infected pulp not being completely removed during the original treatment.

When you receive a root canal retreatment, our dentists will access the pulp chamber of your tooth and remove the filling that was placed after your first root canal. We will examine the tooth for signs of infection, paying careful attention to the roots, which may not have been reached during your original visit. After the infection has been removed and the pulp chamber cleaned and reshaped, we will place new filling material and seal the tooth. Our dentists may want to see you again for a follow-up visit and to place a crown to protect the tooth.

If you suspect that you may need a root canal retreatment, call our office for an appointment.