How long will a tooth survive after root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is a treatment used for deep caries infection of the tooth, when bacteria have invaded the pulp and root canals. It consists in removing the pulp, blood vessels and nerves, cleaning the canals and filling them tightly. As a result, the tooth “dies” because it loses its vitality, however, it can continue to perform a function in the oral cavity for a long time.

How long will a tooth survive after root canal treatment?

Studies show that a tooth after root canal treatment can function for several to several decades, and the average length of its “second life” is about 11 years. In some cases, canal-treated teeth serve up to 20 years. It is estimated that about 85% of teeth after such treatment remain without serious complications for 5-10 years.

What does the durability of the tooth after root canal treatment depend on?

The life expectancy of a tooth after root canal treatment is influenced by many factors:

Quality and speed of treatment — precise, microscopically applied treatment increases the chances of durability.
Type and tightness of the canal filling and restoration of the tooth crown — tight restoration minimizes the risk of secondary infection and damage.
Patient's state of health and oral hygiene — even a dead tooth can undergo secondary caries, so hygiene is crucial.
The location of the tooth and its function Molars that are more heavily loaded may be more vulnerable to damage.
Lifestyle and habits of the patient — for example, avoiding hard foods that can damage a weakened tooth.

The importance of tooth restoration

Restoration of the tooth after root canal treatment should occur as soon as possible, preferably in the course of one or two visits. In case of delays, it is recommended to use temporary restoration to protect the tooth from infection. Lack of proper crown restoration shortens the life of the tooth — on average to about 6 years, while a properly protected tooth can last more than 11 years.

The healing process after root canal treatment

After the procedure, the healing of the tooth usually lasts from a few days to several weeks. During this time, minor complaints such as pain or tenderness may occur. The healing rate depends on the general health of the patient, the stage of the procedure and compliance with the doctor's recommendations.

Repeated root canal treatment (reendo)

In some cases, the tooth after root canal treatment may need to be re-treated if there are complaints of pain or recurrence of infection. Repeated treatment involves re-cleaning and filling the canals and can extend the life of the tooth for years to come. The effectiveness of such treatment is about 74%.

Summary

Root canal treatment does not mean the end of the tooth's life. With proper quality treatment, fast and tight restoration and good oral hygiene, the tooth can serve the patient for many years, even several tens. Taking care of your teeth after root canal treatment is just as important as having healthy natural teeth.

Content author

Dr. Wojciech Gącienica-Ciułacz

Dentist/Dental implantologist

Dr. Wojciech Gącienica-Ciułacz is a dentist for whom dentistry is a true vocation. In his practice, he stands out for his extraordinary ability to listen carefully to patients, thanks to which he is able to precisely adjust the treatment plan to the individual needs and expectations of each person. His approach is based on the deep conviction that effective dental therapy must take into account not only the medical aspect, but also the comfort and well-being of the patient.