Root Canal Retreatment—Restoring Dental Health With Precision & Expertise
At Laguna Endodontics in Elk Grove, CA, we believe in the importance of preserving your natural teeth whenever possible. While initial root canal therapy is usually successful, there can be instances where a tooth that has undergone treatment may fail to heal properly or could become reinfected, causing discomfort. Root canal retreatment offers a second chance at saving such a tooth. Our dedicated team of endodontic specialists is here to guide you through this process, ensuring your comfort and understanding every step of the way.
What Is Root Canal Retreatment?
Root canal retreatment is a procedure that’s performed when an initial root canal therapy didn’t fully heal, or when infection has returned to the treated tooth. Just like a standard root canal, the retreatment involves cleaning the canals inside the tooth, removing the old root canal filling, treating the new or recurring infection, then refilling and sealing the tooth.
Signs You Need Root Canal Retreatment
- Pain or discomfort in the previously treated tooth
- Sensitivity to pressure
- Swelling around the tooth or gums
- Return of infection visible in an x-ray
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit an endodontic professional to assess the situation and determine the best course of action.
The Root Canal Retreatment Process
The root canal retreatment process is similar to an initial root canal but involves a few more steps:
- Assessment and x-ray: The tooth is examined, and an x-ray is taken to identify the source of the problem.
- Removal of previous restoration and filling: The tooth is reopened, and the previous root canal filling is removed.
- Cleaning and disinfection: The canals are thoroughly cleaned, and any infection is treated.
- Refilling and sealing: Once clean and free from infection, the canals are filled and sealed.
- Restoration: Finally, the tooth is restored with a new crown or filling for protection.
Our team at Laguna Endodontics uses advanced technology and techniques to ensure the retreatment is as efficient, comfortable, and effective as possible.
Recovery Following Root Canal Retreatment
Just like with initial root canal therapy, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort for a few days following root canal retreatment. This is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter discomfort relief medication. We recommend avoiding chewing on the retreated tooth until all sensitivity has subsided. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team with any questions or concerns about your recovery.