If your tooth has previously undergone root canal therapy but symptoms have returned, you may benefit from root canal retreatment in Burnsville, Minnesota. Even after a successful initial treatment, a tooth can become reinfected due to missed canals, delayed restoration placement or new decay that compromises the integrity of the tooth. When this happens, the tooth may again exhibit signs of infection such as pain, swelling or sensitivity to temperature or pressure. Rather than extracting the tooth, root canal retreatment offers a way to preserve your natural tooth and restore your oral health.
What to Expect During Root Canal Retreatment
Root canal retreatment begins with a thorough assessment to determine why the initial treatment failed. Our team will take new digital X-rays and closely examine the tooth’s internal structure. After numbing the area for your comfort, we will reopen the affected tooth and carefully remove the filling material placed during the first root canal. This step provides access to the root canals and allows us to identify any missed or untreated areas that may be harboring infection.
The canals are then cleaned, shaped and disinfected to remove any residual bacteria. Additional canals or complex anatomy may be located and addressed during this stage. Once the infection has been thoroughly cleared, the canals are sealed with new filling material to prevent future bacterial invasion. A temporary restoration is placed while the tooth heals, and a permanent crown or other restoration is typically scheduled for placement at a follow-up visit.
Why Root Canal Retreatment May Be Needed
Several factors can contribute to the need for retreatment. If the tooth had unusually curved or narrow canals that were not fully treated during the initial procedure, infection may persist or return. A delay in placing a crown or other final restoration may also allow bacteria to re-enter the tooth. In some cases, trauma or a new cavity can expose the root canal system and create a pathway for infection.
Choosing root canal retreatment allows you to save your natural tooth and avoid more extensive procedures such as tooth extraction and dental implant placement. Preserving your tooth helps maintain proper chewing function, jaw alignment and overall oral health.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are experiencing symptoms in a previously treated tooth or have questions about root canal retreatment in Burnsville, MN, our team is here to help. We will evaluate your needs and recommend the most effective course of care. Contact Twin Cities Modern Dentistry today at 952-435-4177 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mike Henrickson or Dr. Laureen Ballinger and take the next step toward restoring your healthy smile.