A root canal is a common dental procedure that treats infection or damage within a tooth’s soft inner tissue, known as the pulp. This procedure involves removing the infected pulp, thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and then filling and sealing it. Its purpose is to save a compromised tooth, alleviate pain, and restore its function.
Expected Lifespan of a Root Canal
Root canal treatments are highly successful, with a significant majority of treated teeth remaining functional for many years. Studies indicate that approximately 98% of root canals last at least one year, 92% remain functional after five years, and 86% survive for ten years or more. While many can last for decades or even a lifetime with proper care, the average lifespan is often cited as 10 to 15 years, with one study finding a median survival time of around 11.1 years.
Factors Influencing Longevity
Several factors influence a root canal’s longevity. A permanent restoration, such as a crown or filling, placed soon after the procedure is important. This protects the tooth from fracture and re-infection, as the tooth can become brittle after pulp removal. Back teeth, like molars, often require crowns due to the substantial chewing forces they endure.
Consistent oral hygiene habits also impact longevity. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups are important for preventing new decay or gum disease. Poor oral hygiene can allow bacteria to re-enter the tooth or surrounding tissues, leading to re-infection. The initial infection’s severity can influence prognosis, with complex cases having a slightly lower success rate. The dental professional’s skill, ensuring complete removal of infected tissue and proper sealing, contributes to a favorable outcome. A patient’s overall systemic health also affects the body’s ability to heal and maintain the treated tooth.
Signs of Potential Failure
Even after a successful procedure, issues can develop. Persistent pain or tenderness in the treated tooth or surrounding gum tissue signals a problem. This discomfort may be a constant ache, throbbing, or pain when chewing or applying pressure.
Other indicators include:
- Swelling in the gums around the tooth or the appearance of a “pimple-like” bump (fistula or abscess) on the gum.
- A change in the tooth’s color, often appearing darker or grayish, may also suggest internal damage or re-infection.
- Increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, which should typically resolve after a successful root canal.
- Signs of new decay around the treated tooth or a loose or fractured crown or filling.
- An unpleasant taste or odor in the mouth might also point to bacterial activity and re-infection.
Options for a Failing Root Canal
If a root canal-treated tooth develops new problems, several treatment options are available to attempt to save it. Root canal re-treatment is a common approach. The tooth is reopened, the previous filling material is removed, and the canals are thoroughly re-cleaned and re-sealed to address any missed areas or new infection. Its success rate is approximately 75%.
If re-treatment isn’t feasible or successful, an apicoectomy may be considered. This surgical procedure involves making a small incision in the gum to access and remove the tip of the tooth’s root along with infected tissue. The root end is then sealed with a small filling.
If these options aren’t suitable or the tooth is too compromised, extraction may be necessary. After extraction, replacement options such as a dental implant or a dental bridge can be considered to restore the missing tooth. Consulting an endodontist or general dentist is important to determine the most appropriate course of action.