• Australian Endodontic Specialists

Root Canal Retreatment

Another chance to save your natural tooth

If a previously treated tooth has not healed as expected or has developed a new issue, retreatment gives us another opportunity to assess and treat it. Root canal retreatment in Sydney involves reassessing the existing root canal and treating any areas that require further attention. For suitable teeth, retreatment can be considered before extraction, with the aim of preserving the natural tooth.

Book consultation Call 02 9680 4311
  • Single appointment, often
  • 3D CBCT imaging
  • Surgical microscope

Why root canals sometimes fail

A previously treated tooth can develop a new problem, and understanding the cause can help determine whether further endodontic treatment is needed:

Missed canals

Teeth can have complex internal anatomy, with additional canals that may be difficult to identify during the initial treatment. If a canal remains untreated, bacteria can persist inside the tooth. Root canal retreatment allows us to reassess the existing treatment and address areas that require further attention.

New decay

Decay can develop around an existing filling or crown, allowing bacteria to enter the tooth again. This can affect a previously treated tooth and may require further endodontic treatment.

Cracks

A crack can create a pathway for bacteria to reach the inside of the tooth. We assess the location and extent of the crack to determine whether further endodontic treatment is appropriate.

Reinfection

Bacteria can re-enter a previously treated tooth through new decay, a damaged restoration or other changes over time. Root canal retreatment in Sydney provides an opportunity to reassess the tooth and determine the appropriate next step.

Read our guide to why root canals sometimes fail for a more detailed look at these causes.

The specialist retreatment process

Our retreatment process is designed to provide careful, precise treatment at each stage.

1

3D CBCT imaging

We start with a 3D scan to understand your tooth’s anatomy. This helps us identify the source of the infection and any canals that may not have been treated previously.

2

Precise access

We work through the existing crown, where possible, using a specialist microscope. This provides 20-25x magnification, allowing us to see deep inside the tooth.

3

Advanced disinfection

We use advanced ultrasonic instruments to thoroughly clean and disinfect the entire canal system, removing the old filling material and bacteria.

4

Resealing

The canals are medicated, filled with new, sterile material, and a secure temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth.

Who is a candidate for root canal retreatment?

Root canal retreatment in Sydney may be considered for a previously treated tooth where:

  • Persistent infection remains around the root.
  • Symptoms return, such as pain, tenderness or swelling.
  • A canal was missed during the original treatment.
  • New decay or a damaged restoration has allowed bacteria to re-enter the tooth.

Your endodontist will assess the tooth and determine whether retreatment is appropriate. In some cases, root end surgery may be considered instead, while extraction may be discussed when the tooth cannot be preserved. For sudden pain or swelling, emergency endodontic care can help determine the next step.

  • FAQs

Frequently asked questions

The outcome of retreatment depends on the condition of the tooth and the reason further treatment is needed. Your endodontist will assess the tooth and explain what retreatment may achieve, along with any other options that may be appropriate.

Retreatment is performed with local anaesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area. You may experience pressure or sensation during treatment, and your endodontist will monitor you throughout the procedure and manage any discomfort as needed.

Most specialist retreatments are completed in a single appointment of around 2-4 hours. More complex cases may require two appointments, with the treatment plan and expected visits explained after your tooth has been assessed.

Find out if retreatment is right for you. Book a consultation

Considering root canal retreatment in Sydney? Book a consultation and we will assess your tooth, review the previous treatment and explain whether retreatment is appropriate. You can also learn more about root canal treatment and how specialist care can help preserve your natural tooth.

For dentists referring patients, find out more about our specialist care.

Book consultation Call the clinic Refer a patient