Root canal treatment is used to save a tooth when its pulp chamber has been damaged, as the blood vessels, connective tissues, and nerves in the pulp chamber are exposed to harmful irritants like bacteria and the acids that they produce. Root canal treatment involves the dentist removing the soft tissues in the pulp to prevent infection and stop the pain caused by the damage. These soft tissues are only necessary when a tooth is still growing. Once it is fully developed, the tooth can get all the nutrients that it needs from the surrounding blood vessels.
The benefits of getting root canal therapy can last a lifetime, but some patients might need additional treatments in the future. Factors like the location of the tooth and the patient’s age often determine how long the benefits of a root canal last.
According to studies reported by WebMD, over 90% of root canals are successful, meaning the patient does not need any additional treatments. About 86% of root canals last over 10 years. Let us take a look at a few of the factors that can impact the success rate of root canal treatments.
Root canal treatments that are performed when needed typically last longer than those performed after the issue has been allowed to fester. The longer that a person waits before getting root canal therapy for a tooth with a compromised pulp chamber, the higher the risk of complications. Wait long enough, and root canal therapy might no longer be an option. For example, dentists often recommend extractions over root canals when there is a significant risk of an infection spreading into the jaw.
Dentists often recommend restorations like composite bonding or crowns for teeth that have been repaired with root canal therapy. The type of restoration used also affects how long the treatment lasts. Composite bonding is the more affordable way to rebuild a tooth after root canal therapy, but it does not offer as much protection as a crown. Teeth covered up with crowns after a root canal typically have fewer complications. How soon the restoration is placed on the tooth also affects the longevity of the treatment.
Root canals performed on teeth located at the front of the mouth are typically less complicated than treating teeth in the back of the mouth. These teeth are also subjected to fewer forces and bite pressures after the procedure because they are primarily used for cutting and biting.
Molars at the back of the mouth are the most challenging teeth to restore with root canal therapy because they have multiple root canals and deal with considerably greater forces after the treatment. Covering these teeth with crowns is a must.
Root canal therapy can be a long-term solution for infected or damaged teeth and can last the rest of your life. Call or stop by our Chamblee clinic to set up an appointment with our dentist.
Request an appointment here: https://chambleedental.com or call Chamblee Dental Care at (770) 238-4316 for an appointment in our Chamblee office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Root Canal Treatment in Chamblee, GA.
Preparing for an upcoming root canal? This procedure is one that often causes anxiety; however, modern-day dentistry has allowed for serious innovations in technology, thus ensuring positive results that are achieved with little to no discomfort involved. In general dentistry, a root canal falls under the category of restorative work. When a tooth is in bad…
Wondering whether root canal therapy is in your near future? The only way to know is to make an appointment with a general dentist for a full oral evaluation. While most dental patients know they have a problem tooth, not all tooth infections cause pain.A tooth infection occurs when bacteria are able to get inside…
Thinking you need to undergo a root canal to save one of your teeth? A general dentist is the type of dental professional who typically performs this type of oral surgery often. The fact that root canal therapy is necessary to save an infected tooth makes it a good idea for patients to learn more…
Looking for more information on root canal therapy? Root canals are special dental procedures that are necessary in order to save and restore one's oral health. While they do have a reputation for being painful, current dental technology has allowed for an easy, painless procedure. Keep reading to learn when a root canal may be…
It is helpful to have an in-depth understanding of teeth whitening before starting treatment. In general, teeth whitening performed in-office is a safe procedure with few risks, and knowing more about the process and what to expect can help you mentally and physically prepare for the procedure. There are certain questions that general dentists receive regularly.…
It can be hard to know exactly how to recover properly after tooth extraction. Long ago, there was a lot of pain involved afterward, however, modern-day dentistry has allowed for the evolution of less invasive techniques, which results in less swelling and less pain. Nonetheless, there are still a few things to consider after tooth…