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What Is Root Canal Treatment Success Rate? What Determines Whether It Works

Your dentist has recommended a root canal. You have heard it can fail. What is the actual success rate — and what determines whether the treatment lasts or whether the tooth eventually needs extracting?

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Your dentist has told you that you need a root canal. You are probably wondering: will it actually work? Will the tooth last? These are completely fair questions — and you deserve honest answers.

The good news is that root canal treatment has a very high success rate. Studies consistently show that between 85% and 95% of root canal treatments are successful. That means for most people, the treated tooth lasts for many years — often a lifetime.

But no medical procedure is guaranteed. A small number of root canals do fail. When that happens, there are options to try to save the tooth again.

Several factors affect whether your root canal lasts. The extent of the infection before treatment matters a lot. If the infection was caught early, the outlook is better. If the tooth already has a large abscess or significant bone loss, the chances of success are lower.

The quality of the crown placed on top is also crucial. After a root canal, your tooth becomes brittle. Without a proper crown, it can crack or the filling can fail. Think of the crown as armour for your tooth.

Your own oral hygiene habits play a role too. Even a perfectly treated tooth can get reinfected if you do not look after it. Regular brushing, flossing, and check-ups keep the whole mouth healthy.

Sometimes a tooth that has had a root canal still causes problems years later. The infection may return, or the tooth may crack. In these cases, you have options — including root canal retreatment or, in some cases, an apicoectomy.

If your dentist recommends a root canal, the odds are firmly in your favour. The vast majority of patients keep their treated tooth for many years. Chat with your dentist about any concerns — they can walk you through what to expect in your specific situation.

If you have been told you need a root canal, or if you have had one that is causing problems, we are here to help. Our team can assess your situation and talk you through the best approach for your smile.

Call 01323 723757 or book at www.meadsdental.com

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