Six signs you might need endodontic retreatment

Root canal therapy, or endodontic treatment, is a restoration effort to save a tooth from permanent extraction. During this procedure, an endodontist like Dr. Darlene Davis of Soft Touch Endodontics in Suwanee, Georgia, removes the inner dental pulp inside the tooth and disinfects the inner canals. In doing so, this deadens the tooth and removes the infection. However, there are times when this procedure is not 100% effective, and endodontic retreatment is needed. Let’s look at some signs that this procedure may need to be redone to save your smile!

1. Lingering pain that won’t resolve on its own. You have had a root canal, but that tooth is still giving you grief. If the discomfort sticks around longer than normal, it might be time to be reevaluated by an endodontist to see if the tooth that has had root canal therapy requires extra attention.
2. A sore spot that remains over time. Does your tooth feel tender to the touch when you press on it? A persistent sore spot in the smile may indicate that endodontic retreatment is needed to resolve it.
3. Swelling or puffy gums around the affected tooth. If you’re noticing some swelling in your gums or jaw around the treated tooth, it might be worth a closer look by the team at our office.
4. A recurring pimple-like bump on the gums. A tiny bump that comes and goes near your tooth may seem harmless, but it could indicate an infection. This is when you should reach out to a professional for further evaluation.
5. Sensitivity to heat or cold that lasts longer than normal. Enjoying your hot cocoa or ice cream shouldn’t come with a sharp toothache! If your tooth is overly sensitive to temperature, it might be time to revisit that root canal.
6. New decay or damage near the treated tooth. If the crown or filling over your root canal feels off, is cracked, or there’s visible decay, it’s like a door you thought was fixed popping open again.

What should I do if I suspect I need further treatment after endodontic restoration with a provider near me?

Don’t worry, needing endodontic retreatment is not uncommon. However, working with an endodontist who can perform retreatment is the first step in restoring your smile. If you are located in Suwanee, GA, and want to speak to a professional about your oral health concerns, we invite you to connect with Dr. Darlene Davis of Soft Touch Endodontics. Her office is located at 1120 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard #205 and can be reached by dialing (770) 212-9771.

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