Still In Pain After A Root Canal? You Might Need A Retreatment — Here's How The Endodontic Office Can Help

Did your toothache return after you already had a root canal? That lingering discomfort, swelling, or tenderness could be a sign that your previous treatment didn’t fully heal the infection. The good news? You don’t have to live with it.

At The Endodontic Office, we specialise in root canal retreatment, a precise procedure designed to clean out any remaining infection, seal the tooth properly, and restore your oral health, without the need to extract your natural tooth.

Don’t ignore the signs. When a root canal fails, acting quickly can make all the difference.

What Is Root Canal Retreatment?

Root canal retreatment is a second chance at saving a tooth that has not healed properly after its initial root canal therapy. In some cases, the tooth may become reinfected months or even years later. The reasons vary—missed canals, complex anatomy, new decay, or broken restorations—but the result is often the same: renewed pain, swelling, or infection.

At The Endodontic Office, our specialist endodontists have advanced training and state-of-the-art tools to identify and resolve the issue accurately and gently.

Signs You May Need Root Canal Retreatment

It’s not always easy to tell when a previous root canal has failed. Here are some warning signs to watch for:

• Persistent pain or discomfort in the treated tooth
• Sensitivity to hot or cold, especially after the tooth was symptom-free
• Swelling or tenderness in nearby gums
• Development of a pimple or abscess on the gum
• Darkening or discolouration of the tooth
• Pain when biting or chewing

If you notice any of these symptoms—even if they seem mild—it’s worth getting a professional evaluation at The Endodontic Office. Early intervention can help you avoid more complex treatments later on.

How Root Canal Retreatment Works At The Endodontic Office

Root canal retreatment is more intricate than a standard root canal and requires skill, precision, and advanced imaging. Here's what you can expect:

1. Consultation & Assessment

We begin with a thorough clinical exam, digital imaging, and a detailed review of your previous treatment. Our endodontists evaluate the tooth structure, restoration, and any signs of lingering infection.

2. Removal Of Existing Filling Or Crown

We gently remove the crown, bridge, or filling placed during your initial root canal to access the inner portion of the tooth. Using special instruments, we carefully remove the previous root filling materials.

3. Cleaning & Disinfection

Next, we meticulously clean the canals again, disinfect them to eliminate bacteria, and look for any hidden or previously untreated canals. In some cases, we may place an antimicrobial dressing and schedule a second visit to ensure complete sterilisation.

4. Refilling & Sealing

Once the tooth is clean and dry, the canals are refilled with new material and carefully sealed to prevent reinfection. If needed, a temporary filling is placed until your final restoration.

5. Final Restoration

You’ll return to have a new crown or filling placed. This protects the tooth and restores full function and appearance.

Why Choose The Endodontic Office For Retreatment?

Root canal retreatment is delicate and requires an experienced hand. At The Endodontic Office, you’ll benefit from:

• Highly specialised care: Our endodontists focus solely on complex root treatments.
• Advanced diagnostics: Digital X-rays and 3D imaging to detect hidden issues.
• Minimally invasive techniques: We use modern tools for gentle, precise care.
• Transparent communication: You’ll understand your options every step of the way.
• Patient-first approach: We prioritise your comfort and long-term oral health.

Post-Operative Care After Root Canal Retreatment

Following retreatment, good aftercare is crucial for healing and preventing complications. Here are clear, detailed post-operative instructions to follow:

1. Immediately After Treatment

• Anaesthesia care: The numbness in your mouth may last for 2 to 4 hours. Avoid chewing, biting, or drinking hot liquids until full sensation returns to prevent injury.
• Mild discomfort is normal: Some tenderness or aching is expected for a few days. This is your body’s natural healing response.
• Pain relief: Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen (if medically safe) can help. Follow dosage instructions and avoid aspirin.

2. Eating & Drinking

• Wait before eating: Don’t eat until the numbness fully wears off.
• Soft diet: Stick to soft foods for the first 24 hours. Avoid sticky, hard, or crunchy items that could disturb the temporary filling.
• Chew on the opposite side: This helps prevent damage or irritation to the treated tooth.

3. Oral Hygiene

• Keep the area clean: Continue to brush and floss normally, but be gentle around the treated tooth.
• Rinse with warm salt water: Do this twice daily to soothe the gums and reduce inflammation (1 tsp salt in a glass of warm water).

4. Activity & Recovery

• Take it easy: Avoid strenuous activity for the rest of the day.
• Swelling or bruising: Slight gum swelling may occur and can be managed with a cold compress for 10–15 minutes at a time.

Watch For These Signs

Call The Endodontic Office if you experience:

• Increasing pain after 48–72 hours
• Persistent swelling that worsens
• Fever or feeling unwell
• A broken temporary filling
• Pus or a foul taste in your mouth

We’re here for you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if something doesn’t feel right.

FAQs: Root Canal Retreatment

Q1: Why would a root canal need to be redone?

A: Sometimes, a previous root canal doesn’t fully eliminate the infection, often due to missed canals, poor sealing, or reinfection through a cracked filling or new decay.

Q2: Is retreatment painful?

A: No. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, and most patients report little to no discomfort during or after the treatment.

Q3: Will I need a new crown after retreatment?

A: In many cases, yes. The previous crown may need to be removed and replaced to ensure proper sealing and protection.

Q4: How long does retreatment take?

A: Most retreatments are completed in 1–2 visits, but complex cases may require additional appointments for optimal healing.

Q5: What are the risks if I delay retreatment?

A: Delaying retreatment may allow the infection to spread to surrounding tissues, cause bone loss, or result in tooth loss.

Don’t Give Up on Your Tooth – Let Us Fix What Went Wrong

A failed root canal doesn’t mean you have to lose your tooth. At The Endodontic Office, we offer trusted, effective root canal retreatment that relieves pain and gives your smile a second chance.

If your tooth is still causing trouble after previous treatment, let us take a look.

Book your consultation with The Endodontic Office today – and get back to living pain-free.