How long will a root canal last?

The lifespan of a tooth after a root canal can vary based on several factors, including the quality of the procedure, the materials used, and how well the tooth is cared for afterward. While a root canal can save a tooth from extraction, it does not make the tooth invulnerable to future issues. You also play a role in making your treated tooth last long.

Read this blog to learn about the general expectations for longevity and how you can ensure your treated tooth remains strong.

Extended Durability: Can a Root Canal Last a Lifetime?

A root canal-treated tooth can last decades or even a lifetime with the right care. Success largely depends on factors such as:

• Timely Crown Placement: A dental crown helps protect your tooth from fractures and reinfection. Teeth that receive crowns tend to last much longer than those that do not.
  
• Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups help prevent new infections from developing around the treated tooth.
  
• Avoiding Excessive Force: Habits like grinding your teeth (bruxism) or chewing on hard objects (such as ice or pens) can weaken your treated tooth over time.
  
• Regular Dental Visits: Routine check-ups allow the dentist to monitor the treated tooth and address any concerns before they become major issues.
  

By following these best practices, you can significantly extend the life of your procedure and maintain a healthy, functional smile for years to come.

Factors Influencing Root Canal Success

Several elements play a role in determining how long your treated tooth will last:

• Quality of the Procedure: Ensuring all canals are thoroughly cleaned and sealed is crucial.​
• Restorative Work: Placing a dental crown can protect the tooth and enhance its longevity. 
• Oral Hygiene Practices: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can prevent reinfection.
• Tooth Location: Molars, due to their role in chewing, might experience more stress, potentially affecting their durability.​
• Patient’s Overall Health: Conditions like diabetes can influence healing and the success of dental procedures.​

While a root canal is designed to remove infection and preserve the tooth, complications can occasionally occur. It’s important for you to be aware of any changes.

When Should You See The Dentist After A Root Canal Treatment?

Here are sme signs that indicate a problem with your dental procedure:

Persistent Pain

Mild discomfort is normal after this surgery, but worsening pain could indicate an underlying issue. If bacteria have entered your operated tooth due to an incomplete seal, the infection can return.

Some teeth have complex root structures with extra canals that may have been overlooked during the procedure. A crack in your treated tooth can cause persistent pain and may require additional treatment.

Swelling or Tenderness

Swelling and redness could indicate the growth of a pus-filled sac around the root of the treated tooth. In some cases, irritation from food debris or bacteria trapped near the tooth can cause localized swelling.

If the swelling becomes severe or spreads beyond the immediate area of your tooth, seek dental care immediately.

Discharge or Pus

The presence of pus or an unusual discharge around the treated tooth strongly indicates infection. This may be accompanied by a bad taste in the mouth, a foul-smelling breath, and so on.

While root canals have a high success rate of around 82%,  their longevity largely depends on factors like the quality of the procedure, subsequent restorative work, and oral hygiene practices. By staying proactive in your dental care, you can ensure that your treated tooth serves you well for many years.

Do you need dental assistance to undergo this procedure? Schedule a consultation today!