When a previously treated tooth becomes painful or reinfected, it can feel overwhelming to consider your next step. Should you try to save the tooth with a root canal retreatment, or is an extraction the better route? 

Every patient’s situation is unique, and at Relieve Root Canal Specialists in San Diego, Dr. Ronak Makadia takes the time to explain options clearly and compassionately. Understanding the pros and cons of each treatment can ease anxiety and help you make a confident, informed decision that supports your long-term health and comfort.

What Is Root Canal Retreatment?

Root canal retreatment is a second chance to save a tooth that didn’t fully heal or has developed new problems since your original root canal treatment. It’s not usually necessary, but sometimes is required for complex tooth infections.

Using magnification and advanced techniques like the GentleWave system, Dr. Makadia can access complex canal systems, clean them thoroughly, and reseal the tooth to prevent further infection. Some key reasons a retreatment may be the right choice:

• Persistent or renewed pain: If a tooth continues to hurt for weeks or months after the first root canal, a careful evaluation may reveal missed canals or new decay underneath the restoration.
• Preserving your natural tooth: With retreatment, there’s a strong possibility you can keep your original tooth and avoid the visual and functional compromises of extraction.
• Minimally invasive: Thanks to tools like the dental microscope, retreatments are more precise and comfortable than ever before.

When Is Tooth Extraction the Better Option?

In some cases, saving the tooth is no longer a viable option. If the damage is too extensive or the structure of the tooth has become compromised, extraction may be necessary. While the idea can be intimidating, Dr. Makadia ensures patients in pain receive prompt attention.

In fact, we often offer same-day emergency appointments for tooth extractions to eliminate pain and discomfort, treat the root cause of your issue, and prevent further complications.  Tooth extraction might be recommended when:

• The tooth is fractured: A vertical root fracture often can't be repaired and leaves the tooth vulnerable to ongoing infection.
• Repeated failures: If a retreatment has already been attempted and pain persists, removal may be a more predictable path to a pain-free, healthy mouth.
• Financial or health concerns: Sometimes, extensive restorations or multiple visits may not be practical given a patient’s budget, schedule, or other such factors.

How Do the Outcomes Compare?

Choosing between retreatment and extraction depends on your goals, oral health, and budget. Both options can be effective, but their outcomes differ in some important ways:

• Lifespan: Retreated teeth often last many years with proper care. Implants to replace extracted teeth are also long-lasting but require surgery and healing time.
• Cost and coverage: Retreatment is more budget-friendly upfront and may be covered by insurance. Tooth extraction followed by an implant or bridge typically involves higher overall treatment costs.
• Healing time: Retreatment generally involves less discomfort and has a recovery time measured in days, compared to the 6-12 months that may be required for a dental implant.

At Relieve Root Canal Specialists, we help patients weigh these options carefully. Our patient-first philosophy ensures you’ll never be rushed into a decision, and we’ll always explain the "why" behind every treatment recommendation with honesty and empathy.

The Comfort Experience You Deserve

Dental decisions can be stressful, especially if you’re in a lot of pain. That’s why Dr. Makadia offers personalized comfort options tailored to anxious patients. From multiple sedation choices to noise-canceling headphones and even iPads for distraction, every detail is designed to make your visit feel less intimidating.

Our advanced diagnostic and treatment tools, such as dental microscopes and the GentleWave system, not only improve accuracy but reduce discomfort and treatment time. Coupled with our team’s warmth and expertise, you’ll sense the difference from the moment you call or step through our doors.

Get Trusted Endodontic Care in San Diego

Whether you’re considering root canal retreatment or facing a potential extraction, the team at Relieve Root Canal Specialists is here to help you make the best decision for your health. Led by Dr. Ronak Makadia, our San Diego office offers emergency appointments, advanced technology, and a gentle, patient-focused approach that puts your comfort first. Call (858) 868-5501 today to schedule a consultation and explore your best tooth-saving options.