Expert Endodontic Retreatment at Hope Endodontics
Endodontic retreatment is a specialist procedure to redo a previous root canal that did not fully heal or has become reinfected. CBCT 3D imaging frequently reveals what initial treatment missed, missed canals, fractures, or persistent infection, so retreatment can be planned conservatively. Most retreatments save the natural tooth and avoid extraction.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Hope Feldman · Diplomate, American Board of Endodontics
Last reviewed May 5, 2026 · NPI 1275089088
When you need retreatment
These are the most common reasons retreatment is recommended. If you recognize any of these signs, call the office. We hold time daily for urgent endodontic care.
- Persistent or returning pain after a previous root canal
- New or recurring infection at the root tip
- A pimple-like bump on the gums near a previously treated tooth
- A loose or compromised crown that allowed bacteria back in
- A tooth that never fully felt right after the original treatment
- CBCT scans showing missed or under-treated canals
How retreatment works at Hope Endodontics
- 1
CBCT 3D evaluation
High-resolution 3D imaging shows the existing fill, missed canals, and any fractures or post-treatment issues.
- 2
Treatment plan
We review the scan with you, explain what we see, and confirm whether retreatment, microsurgery, or extraction makes the most sense.
- 3
Anesthesia & access
Local anesthesia, then a microscope-guided access through the existing crown or filling.
- 4
Removal of prior fill
The previous root-canal material is carefully removed and any missed canals are located under high magnification.
- 5
Cleaning & disinfection
The full canal system is cleaned, shaped, and disinfected.
- 6
Resealing
Canals are refilled with bioceramic sealer and gutta-percha for a long-term seal.
- 7
Restoration handoff
A temporary filling is placed; your general dentist completes the permanent restoration.
The technology behind every appointment
- CBCT 3D imaging is non-negotiable for retreatment
- Surgical operating microscope to find missed canals
- Specialty ultrasonic tips for safe post and material removal
- Bioceramic sealers for predictable resealing
Typical cost
Estimates only. Actual fees depend on your insurance plan, the complexity of the tooth, and any additional restoration work. We provide a written estimate before treatment so there are no surprises.
| Item | Estimated range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Anterior retreatment | $1,200–$1,500 | Front teeth, typically one canal |
| Premolar retreatment | $1,400–$1,700 | — |
| Molar retreatment | $1,700–$2,200 | More complex; CBCT and microscope dependent |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why did my first root canal fail?
- Common reasons include missed canals (especially in molars), a crown that allowed bacterial leakage, a hairline fracture, or an unusually complex canal anatomy. CBCT imaging usually identifies the cause.
- What is the success rate of retreatment?
- Around 75–85% when performed by a specialist with microscope and CBCT. The remaining cases may benefit from endodontic microsurgery (apicoectomy) or, occasionally, extraction.
- Is retreatment more painful than the original root canal?
- No. Retreatment uses the same anesthesia approach as initial root canal therapy. The procedure itself is more technically demanding for the doctor, not for the patient.
- Will my insurance cover retreatment?
- Most PPO plans cover retreatment as a separate procedure. We verify benefits before treatment and provide a written estimate so you know your portion.
- How is retreatment different from microsurgery?
- Retreatment redoes the original procedure through the crown. Microsurgery (apicoectomy) addresses the root tip from the outside through a small gum incision. We will recommend whichever is the right fit based on your CBCT scan.
Explore other endodontic services
Root Canal Therapy
Relieve pain and save your natural tooth with microscope-guided root canal therapy.
Apicoectomy
Microscope-guided surgical removal of infected tissue at the root tip when conventional retreatment is not an option.
Sedation Endodontics
Nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation options for anxious patients and longer treatments.
Pediatric Endodontics
Pulpotomy, pulpectomy, and vital pulp therapy for children and teens, with age-appropriate behavioral guidance.
Regenerative Endodontics
Pulp-tissue regeneration for immature permanent teeth — preserving long-term root development.
Dental Trauma Care
Same-day evaluation and treatment for knocked-out, fractured, displaced, or split teeth — minutes matter.
Endodontic Microsurgery
Apicoectomy removes persistent infection at the root tip and preserves your natural tooth.
Cracked Tooth Care
Specialist diagnosis and treatment for cracked, fractured, or split teeth before they worsen.
CBCT 3D Imaging
High-resolution 3D scans for precise diagnosis and conservative treatment planning.
Emergency Endodontist
Same-day appointments for severe tooth pain, infection, and dental trauma.
Endodontic Second Opinions
Independent specialist review before you commit to a root canal or extraction.
References
- American Association of Endodontists. aae.org
- American Board of Endodontics. aae.org/about/abe
- NIH National Library of Medicine. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
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