Focusing on why root canals sometimes need retreatment, the signs that it might be necessary, and how the retreatment process works.
Retreatment of Failed Root Canals: Why You Might Need It and What to Expect
A root canal treatment is designed to save a tooth and prevent further infection, but in some cases, the tooth may not heal as expected, or new problems can arise months or even years after the procedure. If you’re still experiencing pain, sensitivity, or signs of infection after a root canal, you may need retreatment. As a specialist endodontist at Nuffield Dental, I want to help you understand why retreatment might be necessary and what to expect during the process.
Why Might a Root Canal Fail?
There are several reasons why a root canal might fail, leading to the need for retreatment:
- Undetected Canals: Teeth have complex anatomy, and some may contain extra or curved canals that weren’t located or treated during the initial procedure.
- Inadequate Sealing: If the canals were not properly sealed, bacteria could re-enter, leading to reinfection.
- New Decay: Over time, new decay or a crack in the tooth can allow bacteria to infect the previously treated root canals.
- Compromised Restoration: A damaged crown or filling can expose the tooth to bacteria, requiring retreatment to resolve the issue.
Signs You Might Need Retreatment
If you’ve had a root canal but are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may need retreatment:
- Persistent tooth pain or sensitivity to pressure.
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the treated tooth.
- A pimple-like bump on the gums (fistula), which can indicate an abscess.
- Darkening of the tooth, which could signal internal damage or infection.
What to Expect During Retreatment
- Reassessment: Dr. Irene Sim will first reassess your tooth using digital X-rays or 3D scans to determine the cause of the issue.
- Removing the Restoration: The existing crown or filling will be carefully removed to access the root canals.
- Cleaning the Canals: The old root canal filling material will be removed, and the canals will be cleaned and reshaped.
- Resealing the Tooth: Once cleaned, the canals will be filled and sealed again to prevent further infection.
- New Restoration: A new crown or filling will be placed to protect the tooth.
Retreatment can often save a tooth that might otherwise need extraction. If you’re experiencing symptoms after a root canal, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation at Nuffield Dental. We’ll help you get back on the path to a healthy, pain-free smile.
