Root Canal Treatment
Re-RCT, or root canal retreatment, is performed when a tooth that has already had root canal treatment develops persistent symptoms or shows signs of infection on an X-ray. The old filling material is removed, the canals are re-cleaned and disinfected, and the tooth is sealed again.
It may be advised if the original treatment was incomplete, if new decay or a leaking restoration has allowed bacteria back in, or if an extra canal was missed. Retreatment can give a tooth another chance to heal without extraction.
Benefits
- Aims to save a tooth that has not healed
- Can relieve pain and swelling
- Removes bacteria from previously untreated areas
- May avoid the need for extraction
- Uses detailed imaging to guide treatment
What to Expect
- Examination and detailed X-rays
- Removal of the existing crown or filling if needed
- Removal of the old root filling
- Re-cleaning and disinfection of the canals
- New root filling and seal
- New restoration or crown
Frequently Asked Questions
Reasons can include bacteria remaining in the canals, a missed canal, a crack, or a leaking restoration. Your dentist will investigate the cause.
It can be more involved because old materials must be removed first, so it may take longer and sometimes needs more than one visit.
In some cases endodontic surgery or extraction may be discussed. Your dentist will explain your options if this arises.
