How Long Do Root Canals Last?
A root canal is generally the last attempt to save a natural tooth that is substantially decayed or infected. While it may sound scary, root canals are extremely common and standard in most dental offices. In fact, millions are performed each year with significant success when it comes to saving a natural tooth and reducing pain.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure where the pulp inside and under the tooth is removed. This is generally done when a tooth is cracked, when a cavity is very deep, or when an old filling falls out and causes issues. Similar to when you get a cavity filled, you will get local anesthesia and the dentist will drill into your tooth to remove the decay. The root pulp is then removed to remove the infected or inflamed area and eliminate bacteria from growing. The area is then filled and often sealed. Sometimes a crown is utilized as well. The entire process is relatively short and can not only relieve pain and discomfort, but it can also save you from having a tooth extraction or another future dental issue.
How Do I Know If I Need a Root Canal?
If you suspect that you may need a root canal, the best thing to do is to schedule a visit with a dental specialist. They can let you know the best course of action for your personal situation. However, there are some key signs and symptoms that may indicate you need a root canal.
- Pain – More severe than a normal cavity, persistent pain or pain when eating is usually the first sign.
- Sensitivity – Tooth sensitivity may occur before pain, and it is generally in response to hot or cold temperatures.
- Swollen gums – Swelling around your tooth is a common sign of infection. If it hurts to touch your swollen gums, it’s even more likely that you’ll need a root canal.
- Discoloration – Either on the front of the tooth or at the base of the gums, darkening is usually a sign of root problems. If it looks like you have a black or gray spot where a cavity would show up, that may also be a symptom of extensive decay.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
The length of time that it takes a dental specialist to perform a root canal will depend on a number of things. First, it depends on how significant the decay is. They have to drill down to the root either way, but if the decay is wider and encompassing more of the tooth, it will take longer. Additionally, molars will take longer to drill just based on the sheer size of the tooth.
Second, your ability to handle the procedure well will impact the length of time it takes to complete it. Some people may prefer two separate appointments to complete a root canal, while others can handle getting it done all at once.
In general, a root canal won’t take much longer than having a cavity filled or having a wisdom tooth extracted. It’s a relatively quick and painless process that is much simpler than many think.
How Long Does a Root Canal Last?
Once you’ve undergone a root canal, you may not wish to have another one, so you’re probably concerned with how long the root canal will last. A lot of that depends, again, on a number of different things. Your overall dental hygiene has the greatest impact on how long it lasts. Other habits like smoking, nail-biting, and more can impact how long a root canal lasts as well.
The most important thing is to keep up with regular brushing and flossing to maintain the health and integrity of your teeth. While the vast majority of root canals will last at least 5 years, most of them will last up to 10 or 15 years. If you get a crown and maintain impeccable dental hygiene habits, it can last a lifetime.
Speak with a dental professional today to learn more about root canals and similar dental treatments.