Root Canal Re-treatment
A specialised second treatment for teeth where an earlier root canal hasn't fully healed, aimed at saving the tooth and resolving the underlying infection.
What Is Root Canal Re-treatment?
Root canal re-treatment is performed when a previously treated tooth develops new infection, pain, or fails to heal properly — often due to missed canals, a cracked filling, or new decay beneath an old restoration.
The existing filling material is carefully removed, the canals are re-cleaned and disinfected, and the tooth is resealed, giving it another chance to heal before extraction is even considered.
- Saves teeth that might otherwise need extraction
- Thorough removal of old filling material and reinfection
- Advanced cleaning of previously missed canal areas
- Local anaesthesia keeps the procedure pain-free
- Restores the tooth to full function afterward
Signs You May Need Root Canal Re-treatment
- Pain or swelling in a tooth that already had root canal treatment
- A root-canal-treated tooth that feels tender to bite on
- Recurring infection or a visible gum boil near an old root canal
- An X-ray showing incomplete healing after previous treatment
Not sure if this applies to you? A short consultation will confirm — there’s no obligation to proceed.
What Happens, Step by Step
Diagnosis & X-Ray
We assess the tooth and take an X-ray to understand why the previous treatment didn't fully resolve.
Local Anaesthesia
The tooth and surrounding area are fully numbed before treatment begins.
Removal of Old Filling
The existing root canal filling material is carefully removed to access the canals again.
Re-Cleaning & Disinfection
Canals are thoroughly cleaned, including any areas missed in the original treatment.
Resealing
The canals are refilled and the tooth is sealed, often followed by a new crown for protection.
Common Questions About Root Canal Re-treatment
This can happen due to missed canals, new decay, a cracked restoration, or infection that didn't fully resolve the first time.
No — it's performed under local anaesthesia just like the original procedure and shouldn't be more uncomfortable.
Often yes, especially if the tooth already had a crown or is structurally weaker after re-treatment.
In rare cases where the tooth still doesn't heal, options like apical surgery or extraction may be discussed.
Your smile deserves expert care. Book your appointment today
Same-week appointments available at our Kankurgachi clinic. Speak to our care team by phone, WhatsApp, or the form below.