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 Chapel Hill clinic to set up an appointment with our dentist.
Request an appointment here: https://www.communitysmilesnc.com or call Community Smiles at (919) 913-9075 for an appointment in our Chapel Hill office.
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