Endodontic Retreatment
When a previous root canal has failed often due to complex canal anatomy or delayed restoration. Retreatment gives the tooth another opportunity before extraction is considered.
Why root canals sometimes fail
A well-performed root canal succeeds more than 95% of the time. But teeth are complicated. Reasons a previous treatment might fail include:
Complex canal anatomy — small or curved canals that weren't detected or fully cleaned
Delayed final restoration — a tooth that wasn't crowned promptly and became recontaminated
New decay reaching the treated area
Crack or fracture developing in the tooth
Incomplete cleaning of the original canals
Retreatment addresses these issues before extraction becomes the only option.
Signs your root canal may need retreatment
Pain or sensitivity returning in a previously treated tooth
Swelling near the treated tooth
A pimple-like bump (fistula) appearing on the gum
A darkening or discoloration of the tooth
Discomfort when biting on the tooth
Pain radiating from the jaw or ear on the same side
How retreatment works
Diagnosis. CBCT imaging often helps identify the problem — missed canals, fractures, or reinfection.
Access. The tooth is reopened through the crown or filling.
Removing old material. Previous filling material is carefully removed from the canals.
Thorough cleaning. Canals are cleaned more extensively, often finding areas missed the first time.
New seal. Canals are refilled with fresh biocompatible material.
Restoration. A new filling and often a new crown finish the tooth.
Retreatment takes longer than a first-time root canal usually 60–120 minutes, sometimes split into two visits.
Retreatment vs. extraction vs. apicoectomy
## **Can a failed root canal be fixed?**
Other Services
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a failed root canal be fixed?
How do I know if my root canal is failing?
Is retreatment more painful than the first root canal?
Should I just extract and get an implant instead?
How long does retreatment take to complete?
