Not all root canals are the end of the story—and that’s okay. Sometimes, a tooth that’s already had a root canal doesn’t heal the way it should, or discomfort returns months or even years later. That’s when a root canal retreatment might be necessary. If you’re in the Pocatello area and your previously treated tooth is bothering you, we’re here to help you understand what’s happening and how we can fix it.

Why Would I Need a Root Canal Retreatment?
While most root canals are successful the first time around, there are situations where bacteria re-enter the tooth or healing doesn’t happen as expected. This could be due to:
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Narrow or curved canals that weren’t fully treated
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Delayed placement of a permanent crown or filling
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New decay around the previously treated tooth
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Fractured or loose restoration
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Undetected canal branches
Whatever the reason, retreatment is a second chance to save your natural tooth—and avoid extraction.

Why Would I Need a Root Canal Retreatment?
While most root canals are successful the first time around, there are situations where bacteria re-enter the tooth or healing doesn’t happen as expected. This could be due to:
-
Narrow or curved canals that weren’t fully treated
-
Delayed placement of a permanent crown or filling
-
New decay around the previously treated tooth
-
Fractured or loose restoration
-
Undetected canal branches
Whatever the reason, retreatment is a second chance to save your natural tooth—and avoid extraction.
What to Expect During a Retreatment
Root canal retreatment is similar to the original procedure but involves a few additional steps. Here’s a quick look at what the process might involve:
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Evaluation & Imaging – We take updated X-rays to assess what’s changed since your original treatment.
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Accessing the Tooth – We carefully remove the existing crown or filling to reach the inner tooth structure.
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Cleaning & Disinfection – Old root canal material is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned thoroughly.
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Locating Untreated Canals – We search for and treat any additional or missed canals.
-
Refilling & Sealing – The canals are then refilled, sealed, and the tooth is prepared for a new restoration.
In most cases, the retreatment can be completed in one or two visits, depending on the complexity.

What to Expect During a Retreatment
Root canal retreatment is similar to the original procedure but involves a few additional steps. Here’s a quick look at what the process might involve:
-
Evaluation & Imaging – We take updated X-rays to assess what’s changed since your original treatment.
-
Accessing the Tooth – We carefully remove the existing crown or filling to reach the inner tooth structure.
-
Cleaning & Disinfection – Old root canal material is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned thoroughly.
-
Locating Untreated Canals – We search for and treat any additional or missed canals.
-
Refilling & Sealing – The canals are then refilled, sealed, and the tooth is prepared for a new restoration.
In most cases, the retreatment can be completed in one or two visits, depending on the complexity.


Will It Hurt?

Will It Hurt?
When to Call Us
If you’ve had a root canal in the past and are experiencing any of the following, it’s a good idea to schedule an evaluation:
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Persistent or returning pain
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Swelling or tenderness
-
Sensitivity to pressure or temperature
-
A pimple-like bump on the gums
-
Loose or damaged crown or filling
The sooner we take a look, the better your chance of saving the tooth and avoiding complications.

When to Call Us
If you’ve had a root canal in the past and are experiencing any of the following, it’s a good idea to schedule an evaluation:
-
Persistent or returning pain
-
Swelling or tenderness
-
Sensitivity to pressure or temperature
-
A pimple-like bump on the gums
-
Loose or damaged crown or filling
The sooner we take a look, the better your chance of saving the tooth and avoiding complications.


Trusted Retreatment Experts in Pocatello
Our team is experienced in diagnosing and treating complex cases, including root canal retreatments. We use advanced tools, gentle techniques, and a patient-first approach to ensure you get the best possible outcome.
If you have concerns about a previously treated tooth, let’s talk. We’ll walk you through your options and create a treatment plan that’s right for you.

Trusted Retreatment Experts in Pocatello
Still Have Questions? We’re Here for You.

Still Have Questions? We’re Here for You.
