Although atypical, a tooth that has received root canal treatment may fail to heal properly or pain may continue to exist. The pain may occur months or years after treatment. If so, endodontic retreatment, or “repeat root canal treatment” may be needed.

If endodontic retreatment has been selected as a solution to your problem, your doctor will reopen your tooth to gain access to the canals. The old filling material will be removed and your doctor will clean and examine the inside of the tooth. Once cleaned, the doctors will fill and seal the canals and place a temporary filling in the tooth. You will then need to return to your dentist as soon as possible in order to have a new crown or restoration placed on the tooth.