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Root canal therapy is a specialized procedure that can save a natural tooth, allowing it to stay functional for decades, or even a lifetime! However, not all treatments may succeed since not all teeth are the same. There are a few major factors that influence the success of a root canal.
Kings Mountain General Dentist and their team have been performing root canal treatment for patients for years with high success rates. Let’s explore more about root canals and what can influence their success rate!
What is root canal therapy?
Root canal treatment is an endodontic procedure that aims to eliminate infection from the tooth by removing the pulp and restoring it with a biocompatible material (gutta percha). The pulp is the innermost mass of connective tissue comprising the blood vessels and nerves that actively nourish the tooth.
Why do you need root canal therapy?
You may need a root canal for a severely decayed or damaged tooth if you experience the following symptoms:
- Excruciating pain in the tooth that does not subside easily even after taking medications
- Increased sensitivity to heat and cold temperatures
- Visibly swollen gums
- Presence of an abscess (pus-filled pocket) around the affected tooth
- Swollen jaw causing facial asymmetry
- Tooth discoloration
- Pain while biting or chewing
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Loose tooth
What factors can influence the success of a root canal treatment?
Root canals when performed by a skilled endodontist usually last a lifetime. However, there are a few factors that can influence the success of the procedure. These include:
- Your age
- Older teeth are fragile and prone to fracture which can minimize the success rate.
- How quickly the tooth is treated
- If you need a successful outcome it is essential to treat the tooth as soon as possible.
- The more you delay the more tooth structure is compromised.
- The expertise of the dentist
- Root canal treatments are delicate and meticulous.
- When performed by an experienced endodontist, you can expect a successful outcome.
- The time taken to restore the treated tooth
- It is crucial to restore a root canal-treated tooth as soon as possible with a crown or bridge.
- The tooth that needs treatment
- Teeth with single roots (anterior teeth) are easier to treat with a high success rate.
- Posterior teeth have multiple teeth with different morphology which makes root canal treatment challenging.
Takeaway
Root canals have proven to be excellent alternative solutions to extractions. They greatly enhance your oral health and function. A well-done root canal treatment can last forever.
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