What to Expect From Endodontic Retreatment

Root canal therapy is a safe and effective treatment that eliminates tooth infection and prevents the need for extraction. Unfortunately, if root canal treatment is not performed correctly the first time or becomes contaminated later, tooth pain or infection can occur months or even years later. When this happens, we may need to “re-do” the procedure; a process referred to as “endodontic retreatment.” At Endodontic Consultants of San Antonio, our team has the expertise to help patients in need of retreatment. If you have a problem with a tooth that has had root canal treatment, give us a call to schedule an evaluation.

Why is Retreatment Sometimes Necessary?

Initial root canal treatment involves the removal of the nerves, infection, and inflammation from the tooth. When performed correctly, initial root canal treatment has a high success rate. If not performed correctly, or if the tooth becomes reinfected, it might be necessary to perform retreatment to save the tooth. 

Common reasons for endodontic retreatment include:

• Infection remains in the tooth
• Some but not all of the root canals in a tooth were treated initially
• A leaky filling or crown allows bacteria to enter the tooth, causing a new infection
• A broken tooth causes reinfection

After initial root canal treatment, if there is ongoing pain or swelling, or the tooth simply “feels different” than neighboring teeth, these are signs that the tooth is not healing properly.

Root Canal Retreatment

The first step of retreatment is to remove the existing root canal filling materials and access any untreated canals. Next, the canals are thoroughly cleaned, and the tooth is examined for cracks or leakage from the inside. The root canal system is then thoroughly flushed with a disinfectant solution, and the canals are filled and sealed.   

What Should I Do After Endodontic Retreatment?

It is not unusual for the tooth to be tender for a few days after retreatment. The most important thing is to avoid chewing on it during that time. About half of our patients who have undergone retreatment take over-the-counter pain medication, such as Advil or Tylenol, for a day or two. In most cases, a six-month follow-up appointment will be scheduled so we can evaluate how the tooth is healing. 

If You have had Root Canal Treatment, but your Tooth is Still Painful, Call Us Today!

At Endodontic Consultants of San Antonio, we are experts at saving patients’ natural teeth. We perform successful retreatments of root canal-treated teeth every day. To protect your tooth and improve the health and appearance of your smile, call us today at (210) 405-0473.