Endodontic Retreatment in Citrus Heights, CA

Had a root canal in the past but the pain has returned? Endodontic retreatment may be exactly what saves your tooth. At Citrus Heights Endodontics, Dr. Jyotsna Sundar specializes in retreating failed or reinfected root canals so your natural tooth gets a second chance.

Endodontic Retreatment in Citrus Heights, CA

Had a root canal in the past but the pain has returned? Endodontic retreatment may be exactly what saves your tooth. At Citrus Heights Endodontics, Dr. Jyotsna Sundar specializes in retreating failed or reinfected root canals so your natural tooth gets a second chance.

What Is Endodontic Retreatment?

Endodontic retreatment is a specialist procedure performed when a tooth that previously received root canal therapy has not healed properly or has become reinfected over time. Although most root canals are successful, a small number of cases develop new problems months or even years after the original treatment.

During retreatment, Dr. Sundar reopens the tooth, removes the existing root canal filling material, carefully re-cleans and reshapes the canal system, and reseals the tooth. The goal is the same as the original root canal: eliminate infection, relieve pain, and preserve the natural tooth.

Retreatment is often the best option before considering extraction. With the advanced training and focused experience of a specialist like Dr. Sundar, many teeth that seem beyond saving can be successfully treated and restored to full function.

Signs You May Need Endodontic Retreatment

A previously treated tooth showing new symptoms is a clear signal that something needs attention. Contact our office if you are experiencing any of the following after a past root canal:

01

Pain or tenderness returning in a tooth that was previously treated

02

Swelling or sensitivity in the gums surrounding the treated tooth

03

A new abscess or pimple appearing on the gum near the old treatment site

04

The tooth feeling uncomfortable when biting or chewing

05

A new X-ray showing infection or a dark shadow at the root tip that was not there before

06

A crown or restoration on the treated tooth that became loose, cracked, or failed

07

Ongoing discomfort that never fully resolved after the original root canal

08

If any of these apply to you, do not ignore them. Early retreatment gives your tooth the best possible chance of long term survival.

Why Choose an Endodontist for Retreatment?

Retreatment cases are more complex than first time root canals. The original filling material must be carefully removed, additional canals that may have been missed the first time must be located and cleaned, and the entire root canal system must be re-evaluated with precision.

Dr. Jyotsna Sundar completed a Master of Science in Endodontics alongside her dental degree, giving her the advanced training needed to handle the most complex retreatment cases. As a specialist who performs endodontic procedures exclusively, Dr. Sundar brings a level of focus and technical skill that goes beyond what a general dentist can typically offer for retreatment.

If your general dentist has recommended retreatment or referred you to a specialist, Citrus Heights Endodontics is exactly the right place to be.

Endodontic Retreatment

What to Expect During Endodontic Retreatment

Retreatment follows a careful, thorough process to give your tooth the best possible outcome. Here is what to expect at Citrus Heights Endodontics:

01

Consultation and Diagnosis

Dr. Sundar will review your dental history, take updated X-rays, and thoroughly examine the previously treated tooth. She will explain her findings clearly and walk you through the retreatment process before anything begins.

02

Anesthesia

The area around the tooth is fully numbed to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Most patients find retreatment very manageable with proper anesthesia in place.

03

Removing Existing Filling Material

Dr. Sundar carefully reopens the tooth and removes the original root canal filling material to gain full access to the canal system beneath.

04

Re-cleaning and Reshaping the Canals

The canals are thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and reshaped. Any previously missed canals or areas of reinfection are addressed at this stage.

05

Resealing the Tooth

Once the canal system is fully cleaned, it is filled and sealed again with a biocompatible material to prevent future reinfection.

06

Restoration

After retreatment is complete, you will return to your general dentist to have a new crown or permanent restoration placed to fully protect the tooth going forward.

Endodontic Retreatment and Dental Insurance

Citrus Heights Endodontics accepts most major dental insurance plans including Delta Dental, Cigna, Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of California, Humana, Guardian, and more. Endodontic retreatment is typically covered under major restorative benefits, though the level of coverage can vary depending on your individual plan and whether benefits were previously used on the same tooth.

We encourage all patients to contact our office before their appointment so we can help verify your specific coverage and answer any questions about your benefits.

Insurance coverage varies by plan, employer, and individual benefits. Please contact our office before your visit so we can help verify your current coverage.

What Our Patients Are Saying

Frequently Asked Questions About Endodontic Retreatment

Q: Why would a root canal fail or need retreatment?

Several factors can cause a previously treated tooth to develop new problems. These include new decay reaching the root canal system, a loose or broken restoration allowing recontamination, curved or narrow canals that were not fully treated the first time, or new infection developing over time. Each case is different and Dr. Sundar will identify the specific cause during your consultation.

Q: Is retreatment more painful than a first root canal?

Retreatment with proper anesthesia is typically no more uncomfortable than a standard root canal procedure. Dr. Sundar ensures the area is fully numb before beginning and takes care to keep the process as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Q: How long does retreatment take?

The length of a retreatment appointment depends on the complexity of the case. Dr. Sundar will give you a clearer estimate after reviewing your X-rays and examining the tooth at your consultation.

Q: Do I need a referral for endodontic retreatment?

Many patients come to us through a referral from their general dentist, but you are also welcome to contact our office directly if you believe your previously treated tooth needs attention.

Your Tooth Deserves a Second Chance. We Can Help.

If a previously treated tooth is causing you pain or concern, do not assume extraction is the only option. Contact Citrus Heights Endodontics today to find out whether endodontic retreatment can save your tooth and restore your comfort for the long term.

Hours

Monday 8:30 am- 5:30pm

Tuesday 8:30 am- 5:30pm

Wednesday 8:30 am- 5:30pm

Thursday. 8:30 am- 5:30pm

Friday Closed

Weekend Closed

Location

7628 Auburn Blvd, Citrus Heights, CA 95610, United States

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