According to the American Association of Endodontics, root canals have a success rate of 95% and in most cases they last a lifetime. However, the success of any dental treatment depends on many different variables which our dentists can talk to you about and answer any questions that you may have.
What Is A Root Canal?
Most people are familiar with the term root canal, yet it can be helpful to understand a little bit more about them and the purpose they serve.
A root canal is the naturally occurring space within the root of your tooth. Blood vessels and nerve tissue run through this part of the tooth. When the term root canal is used though, it can also refer to the dental procedures used to remove infected material in the tooth and relieve pain.
How To Best Care For A Tooth With A Root Canal
Caring for a tooth that has a root canal is really no different than how you should care for all of your teeth. Following these daily routines should help your root canal stay pain free and have longevity for the long haul:
Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
Floss daily to remove food and bacteria from between your teeth
Eat a well balanced diet
Wear a bitesplint at night if you find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth
What Would Cause My Root Canal To Fail?
A root canal could fail due to many of the same reasons why you needed a root canal in the first place. These are the main causes of root canals and what can cause a root canal to fail:
Decay: Tooth decay that has penetrated deep into the tooth can cause an infection into the root canal area.
Cracks: Cracks in your tooth could allow leakage that ends up reaching your tooth’s root canal area. This leakage allows for bacteria to get in and cause problems.
Temporary Filler: Initially your root canal is done and your tooth is filled with a temporary filling. This filling will not last long and it is originally meant to protect the root canal area until your dentist can finish the procedure with a perminent restoration. Usually a perminent restoration is placed within a few weeks of having a root canal. If you skip this important second step, your temporary filling will eventually leak as it breaks down. This will allow bacteria back into your root canal which can cause it to fail.
If I Get A Root Canal, Do I Also Need A Crown?
Most times after getting a root canal, your tooth will need a crown as this will protect the remains of your tooth from future tooth pain and break down. A final restoration though may include a bridge, a composite filling, or a veneer depending on your unique situation. Your dentist will be able to let you know the steps needed to completely restore your tooth.
Are There Other Options To Getting A Root Canal?
When it comes to an infected tooth, something needs to be done. An infected tooth won’t just heal itself.
Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed to help calm down an infection or to help a dentist diagnose what is causing your pain. Usually this is not enough to for your problemed root canal to go away.
The only other option for getting a root canal is to extract the tooth. Your teeth serve many functions, from chewing to maintaining bone in your jaw. Removing a tooth should be placed by a dental implant. The dental implant can be a great option because it can’t get decay on it like your natural tooth.
If you or a loved one are experiencing tooth pain, please reach out to our office. Tooth pain is not normal and is often associated with a dental problem.