Root Canal Retreatments
A second, non-surgical cleaning for a treated tooth that has not healed or has become sore again.
A root canal can last a lifetime. Occasionally, though, a treated tooth does not heal fully or becomes sore again months or years later. Retreatment is a non-surgical way to clean that tooth a second time and give it another chance to heal.
Why a treated tooth can flare up
- Hidden canals. Some teeth have small or curved canals that were not reached the first time and need a specialist's magnification to find.
- New leaks. A new cavity, or an old filling or crown that no longer seals, can let bacteria back into the tooth.
- Stubborn bacteria. A small share of cases do not heal after the first treatment and need further care.
What retreatment involves
Dr. Fitzgibbons reopens the tooth, removes the old filling material, and cleans and disinfects the canals again under an operating microscope. The tooth is then resealed and closed so it can heal. If retreatment is not the best option for your tooth, he will explain the alternatives, including endodontic microsurgery.