Root canal safety Root canal treatment is generally very safe and is a standard dental procedure to save a damaged or infected tooth. The therapy simply involves removing the infected tooth pulp. Once removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and well-sealed. While complications may occur, they are rare. The root canal procedures performed by dentists at Duggan Endodontics clinic are highly successful. If you are worried about the safety of root canals, here is everything you should know.What Is a Root Canal?A root canal is a dental therapy that treats an infected tooth by removing the infected pulp. Once the pulp is removed, the inside is cleaned and sealed. This procedure alleviates pain, prevents further infection, and saves the tooth from extraction. Although this process is mainly safe, some people may have concerns about its risks. Root Canal Success Rate and SafetyThe success rate of root canal treatment is high, usually around 95 percent. Most procedures are effective in relieving pain and saving the tooth. With proper care, treated teeth can last a lifetime. However, success depends on factors like the tooth condition, the skill of the dentist, and post-treatment care. After surgery, your dentist will give you guidelines to observe to ensure complete healing. How long does root canal lastA root canal is a dental procedure aimed at saving teeth that otherwise need to be extracted. The longevity of a root canal treatment can vary based on several factors, but generally, a well-performed root canal can last for many years or even a lifetime. Study shows that the median survival time of a tooth after a root canal is about 11.1 years, and with proper maintenance, it can extend up to 20 years. Risks Associated With Root Canal TreatmentWhile generally safe and highly successful, root canal treatment does come with certain risks and potential complications. Understanding these risks can help you make informed decisions and manage your expectations. These are some of the complications that could occur, although not commonly. Root Canal ReinfectionAlthough root canal treatment aims to eliminate infection, there is a slight chance that bacteria can persist or re-enter the tooth. This can happen if the cleaning and sealing process is incomplete or the filling material fails. You should not worry about this because such cases are rare, and most surgeries are successful. Tooth FractureTeeth that require root canals often have extensive decay or structural damage. After the procedure, these teeth can become more brittle and susceptible to fractures. Dentists usually recommend a crown to protect the tooth and reduce this risk. Each case is unique, and with proper treatment, you should not have to worry about fractures. Pain and DiscomfortSome patients experience pain or discomfort following the procedure, which subsides within a few days. Persistent pain might indicate complications such as infection or issues with the filling material. Talk to your dentist if you feel too much pain three to four days after surgery. How to Deal With Root Canal RisksDo not be afraid of a root canal just because of the risks. It is a fact that up to 97 percent of those who undergo the procedure do not face any severe complications. To avoid any complications, choose a skilled dentist. The success of a root canal largely depends on their expertise. After surgery, take care of the tooth according to instructions. Finally, make sure you go back for regular checkups. While root canal treatment is generally safe and effective, knowing the potential risks can help you prepare well. At Duggan Endodontics, we take necessary precautions to ensure your treatment is free of any complications. Please call us at (512)-380-0777 to discuss any concerns and for the best possible outcome. |
