Endodontic Retreatment in Tupelo, MS

A number of things may lead to further problems in a tooth after a root canal treatment. In some cases, the diseased areas were not completely eliminated during therapy and in other instances, a new infection might have formed in the tooth. When a tooth exhibits signs of an infection for the second time following an initial root canal therapy, expert general dentists Doctors Richard Caron or John Kenney will normally recommend endodontic retreatment. Like the original root canal treatment, endodontic retreatment can be performed in our state-of-the-art Tupelo, MS practice to clean out the canals of the tooth and eliminate the present infection. If you still have pain or signs of oral disease following a root canal, schedule an exam at Tupelo Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry to determine if you need endodontic retreatment or another avenue of care.

Ideal candidates who may benefit from endodontic retreatment would be those who have had a root canal treatment but are still suffering from signs of an infection in their teeth. The most common symptoms are the presence of a pimple-like bump on the gums near the tooth or discomfort in the tooth that had a root canal treatment. If endodontic retreatment is not feasible, tooth extraction or apicoectomy may be performed at Tupelo Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. At your exam and consultation, doctors Caron and Kenney will take advanced digital x-rays to evaluate the tooth. We will then discuss the best course of action to treat the infection and do everything we can to preserve your tooth and oral health.

Your endodontic retreatment will be performed in our office with a gentle local anesthetic technique to numb the treated area. If you have dental fears or feel worried about the procedure, sedation dentistry options may also be used. As soon as you are prepared, doctors Caron or Kenney will open the tooth and then take out the filling material placed during the former procedure. The inside of the tooth, including the canals of the tooth roots, will be thoroughly disinfected. Once the tooth has been cleaned and disinfected, it will be strengthened with a new filling material and sealed. A new dental restoration (such as a crown) will generally be placed on the treated tooth for protection and strength once it fully heals.

Following your endodontic retreatment, you may want to take a day or two to rest. Our clinical team will go over specific instructions that will help you recover after endodontic services, including the recommended method to care for your tooth following the procedure. You may be given a prescription for antibiotics that need to be taken as directed, depending on the infection in your tooth. Nonprescription pain relievers can also be taken to help minimize any post-operative discomfort. As soon as your mouth has recovered, it is very important to stick to a great home oral care routine with daily brushing and flossing. Moreover, we recommend that you schedule annual examinations and biannual dental cleanings at Tupelo Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry so that doctors Caron and Kenney can monitor the tooth and your overall oral health.

What are the signs that I need endodontic retreatment?

Signs that you may need endodontic retreatment include persistent pain or discomfort in the previously treated tooth, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling in the gums, or a recurring infection around the tooth. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an evaluation. Our team at Tupelo Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry can diagnose the cause of the problem and recommend the appropriate course of action to alleviate your discomfort and preserve your tooth.

Is endodontic retreatment painful?

Endodontic retreatment is generally no more uncomfortable than the original root canal treatment. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, so you should not feel much pain during the procedure. After the treatment, mild discomfort or soreness may occur, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Our staff takes every step to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience for our patients.

How long does the endodontic retreatment procedure take?

The duration of endodontic retreatment varies depending on the complexity of the case, but most procedures can be completed in one to two visits. Each visit typically lasts between 60 – 90 minutes. Our dentists work efficiently while ensuring the highest level of care, and we will provide you with a clear timeline based on your specific condition.

Endodontic retreatment at Tupelo Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry can be an important procedure to save your natural tooth and resolve oral infection after an initial root canal treatment. Should you show signs of infection in a previously root canal-treated tooth, contact our office in Tupelo, MS to learn more or to plan your appointment with one of our skilled general dentists.