How Long Do Root Canal Treatments Last?

Despite what you may have heard, root canal therapy is a relatively comfortable procedure that saves damaged teeth and relieves your pain. At Highlight Family Dentistry of Hutto, we offer gentle root canals to restore your smile’s health and function. The question is, how long do root canal-treated teeth last? 

Root Canal Therapy – An Overview

Root canal therapy is an endodontic procedure used to eliminate infection from the interior of a tooth resulting from extensive decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. The treatment involves removing the diseased tooth pulp and nerves, cleaning and disinfecting the space, and placing a filling. After root canal therapy, the treated tooth will become brittle and prone to fracture, so it will need a dental crown to protect and preserve it. 

Is There an Alternative to Root Canal Therapy?

Unlike the rest of the body, teeth with damaged tooth pulp cannot heal on their own. Root canal therapy is the only way to restore your oral health. Tooth pulp infection left untreated can lead to complications, including severe pain, swelling, or an abscess, which can cause bone loss around the tooth roots. The infection can also enter the bloodstream, leading to serious health complications.

Root canal therapy is the only way to relieve your pain, eliminate the infection, and restore your healthy smile. The only alternative is to have the affected tooth extracted and replace it with a dental implant or bridge. At Highlight Family Dentistry, we always strive to maintain your natural teeth. 

How Long Do Root Canal Treatments Last?

A root canal-treated tooth will look, feel, and function just like any of your natural teeth. According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), root canals have a more than 95 percent success rate, and in most cases, they last a lifetime. 

How Can You Care for a Root Canal-Treated Tooth?

Caring for a root canal-treated tooth is one of the best ways to ensure its longevity. Make sure you brush and floss gently and use an antimicrobial mouthwash regularly to maintain the health of your teeth. Avoid biting on hard objects to prevent damage to your dental crown as well as your natural tooth enamel.

It is essential to keep up with your routine dental exams and cleanings every six months or at intervals determined based on your unique needs. Your trusted team at Highlight Family Dentistry will monitor your oral health and your treated tooth to make sure your smile stays healthy and bright. If you have any concerns between regular dental visits, make sure to contact us right away.

Root Canal Therapy Near Me

If you have a damaged or painful tooth, contact Highlight Family Dentistry of Hutto, TX, to schedule a consultation. We will evaluate the affected tooth and recommend the most conservative treatment possible to restore your healthy smile. If you require a root canal, you can always expect state-of-the-art, gentle care. Call us at (512) 886-2644 to schedule your appointment, or request one online today!