How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Last?

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.

Determining how long root canal treatment lasts

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.

The timing

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.

The quality of the restoration

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.

The tooth’s location

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 canals are a long-term solution

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.

 

Recent Posts

How Root Canals Save Your Natural Tooth

Patients who are scheduled for a root canal may wonder whether such a procedure is necessary. A root canal can save your natural tooth and prevent you from needing a replacement, such as a dental implant or denture. So, while you might not choose to get a root canal for fun, it is a useful…

Indications For A Root Canal: What To Look Out For

A root canal is a procedure that dentists can perform to stop infection inside a tooth by removing its pulp, or the material in the center of a tooth. Since teeth are made of enamel and other hard materials, they do not swell up to warn you that an infection might be present, like other…

Root Canal Infections: The Symptoms And What You Can Do

Root canal infections occur when bacteria reach the central canals of your teeth due to exposure from taking a blow to the mouth or tooth decay. A root canal is a procedure performed for the purpose of repairing or salvaging a seriously decayed tooth or a tooth that has been severely infected. During a root…

What Is The Purpose Of A Root Canal?

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…

Dr. Ganupur

Share
Published by
Dr. Ganupur

Recent Posts

Broken Tooth: 4 Common Causes

Tired of a broken tooth ruining your smile? Call or visit our Chamblee clinic to…

2 weeks ago

Clear Braces: A Discreet Solution for Crooked Teeth

With clear braces, patients should avoid certain foods that can stain or cause the braces…

3 weeks ago

Dental Bonding and Teeth Whitening

The dentist can fix a range of concerns with dental bonding, including most minor instances…

1 month ago

When Denture Repair is Needed

Dentures and partial dentures require denture repair as needed, depending on the stage of your…

2 months ago

How Root Canals Save Your Natural Tooth

A root canal can save your natural tooth and prevent you from needing a replacement,…

2 months ago

The Role of a Family Dentist in Preventive Care

Family dentists typically focus on preventive care to stop big problems while they are still…

3 months ago