How Successful Are Root Canals?

A root canal is a treatment to repair an infected or badly damaged tooth. When the inside of a tooth gets infected or decayed, it can be dangerous to your overall health. A root canal can help save and restore your tooth. This procedure is routinely performed successfully by dentists all over the world.

Root canals

Endodontic treatment focuses on treating the inside of the tooth. A root canal is a common type of endodontic treatment. It is usually done when there is a problem, such as an infection or inflammation, which can result in tooth decay or a cracked tooth. Undergoing a root canal not only helps prevent pain but also the possibility of developing an abscess. Most teeth treated and restored with a root canal last for many years.

The success rate of root canals

Root canal treatment is very popular because it is highly successful. The success rate of this treatment option is over 95%. Most root canal teeth last a lifetime. But a patient can still get gum disease or a cavity after the procedure. Root canal treatment does not protect the tooth from all types of damage. Patients should always take proper care of their teeth to avoid any problems.

Retreatment

A majority of root canal treatments are successful. But sometimes a treated tooth may not heal properly. It can also become diseased or painful months or in some cases even years after treatment. In these rare cases, an additional procedure may be required. This is referred to as retreatment. When retreating a tooth, the filling material will be taken out and then the canal will be cleaned, reshaped and refilled.

There are many reasons a tooth may not heal as expected. This can happen if curved or narrow canals were not treated during the initial process or a complicated canal anatomy was not detected in the first procedure. This also happens if the placement of a restoration such as a crown was delayed after the treatment or if the restoration failed to prevent salivary contamination to the inside of the tooth. Sometimes, a new problem can endanger a tooth that was treated successfully.

Caring for the treated tooth

With proper care, the treated tooth could last just as long as the other teeth. After a root canal, a patient should follow all the dentist’s instructions, which most often include practicing good oral hygiene every day. Brushing twice every day and flossing once daily is recommended. Patients can benefit from eating soft foods and avoiding hard and chewy foods. A patient should be very cautious around the area where the procedure was finished. Visiting the dentist regularly is also recommended.

Restore your teeth

Root canals have a high success rate. You should always take proper care of your treated tooth after the procedure. Following all of your dentist’s instructions will help ensure your restored tooth lasts for a long time. You should contact your dentist immediately if you are worried that the root canal was not fully successful. A follow-up appointment can help detect potential problems that can then be treated before they get worse.

Are you considering getting a root canal in the Peabody area? Get more information at https://www.northside-dentalcare.com.

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