It is not a fact unknown that the modern root canal treatment has successfully saved several millions of teeth since the last few decades. Without seeking help of this orthodontic process, there’s not much that can be done about preventing tooth decay from destroying the next tooth. When decay is deep into the tooth and gum, a root canal is the only solution at hand.
Not only that, a root canal treatment can also extend the lifespan of a tooth for another few decades. However, one thing to note is that while most root canals have good outcomes, there are instances where the tooth might get re-infected even after a root canal treatment.
How severe can the infection get?
Decay generally begins at the layer of the tooth enamel, that gets softened due to the acid that the bacteria produce. If this is left untreated, the infection can get spread through the next layer, finally reaching the inner pulp. From the pulp, the infection spread to the bone, thereby leading to serious danger to the tooth.
Root canals have higher chances of success when they’re performed during the progression of the disease at an early stage. Hence, visit your dentist as soon as you sense a pain or abnormality in your tooth.
What is the root canal network?
A root canal procedure wipes out all diseased and dead tissue both in the pulp chamber and root canals. But carrying forward this process might become tougher when the teeth have intricate root canal networks. The dentist may overlook few of the infected canals. In such cases, an endodontist or a specialist should treat the interior tooth issues, perform the process utilizing advanced equipment and modern techniques.
What is the age of the tooth?
While root canal treatment is imperative to prevent further tooth decay, it can also weaken the structural integrity of the tooth, particularly when the tooth is old enough. This treatment can then make the bone more vulnerable to fracture and lead to a high chance of infection. This can be averted by placing caps on the root-canaled teeth. This cap, also called a crown, can further safeguard the tooth against infection. The adjoining teeth can also get support due to this crown.
A quick list of the disadvantages of root canal treatment
- There is no guarantee that a root canal will be 100% successful
- As the tooth becomes hollow, it becomes brittle and susceptible to fractures
- In case of insufficient dental restoration, it can lead to re-infection
- Post root canal, the tooth will require reinforcement with either a porcelain post or crown
- This method can blow a hole in your wallet
- Root canal requires several visits and long time-frame of appointments
- It may lead to discomfort in the jaw and mouth as the tooth will remain open for a certain span of time
- Post the root canal procedure, the tooth may darken or even discolor
As your dentist gets access to the inside of your tooth and gets to know the rate of success of a root canal, he should inform you about the current situation. You will then have to decide whether or not you would like to halt the process or continue with it. It’s too ugly to market on Instagram but still orthodontists do promote their procedures on social media accounts.
