Endodontic Retreatment

If a tooth still hurts after a root canal, it doesn’t mean it can’t be saved.

Most root canal treatments heal well and last for years. But in some cases, discomfort or infection can return—sometimes months or even years later. When that happens, retreatment may be recommended to remove the source of infection and give the tooth the best chance to heal.

Dr. Read and Dr. MacDonald specialize in diagnosing why a tooth isn’t healing and helping patients get back to relief—fast.

A tooth may need retreatment if:

  • A hidden canal was difficult to detect during the first procedure
  • Complex anatomy (curved, narrow, or branching canals) made complete cleaning challenging
  • A new leak or breakdown around a crown or filling allowed bacteria back in
  • The final restoration was delayed, leaving the tooth vulnerable to contamination

When Symptoms Return After a Root Canal

Sometimes a tooth that was treated successfully can develop new problems, such as:

  • New decay that reaches the inside of the tooth and allows bacteria in
  • A cracked, loose, or leaking crown/filling that lets bacteria re-enter the tooth

If retreatment is recommended, we’ll gently reopen the tooth to access the root canal system. We remove the old filling material, thoroughly disinfect the canals, and evaluate the inside of the tooth for anything that may be preventing healing. Once cleaned, the canals are sealed again and a temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth.

Don’t Give Up on Your Tooth

If a previously treated tooth is causing you pain or hasn’t healed properly, retreatment can often save it. Dr. Read and Dr. MacDonald specialize in diagnosing why initial treatments fail and carefully restoring your tooth’s health. With advanced techniques and a thorough approach, we give your natural tooth a second chance—so you can avoid extraction and preserve your smile.

Call 720-895-1717 to schedule your retreatment consultation.

DON’T TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT

Hear from patients who feared the worst… and walked out smiling.
Hear from general dentists who won’t send their emergencies anywhere else.