Can a Root Canal Save a Dying Tooth?

December 31, 2023

When the nerve tissue and blood vessels—sometimes called the pulp—within a tooth become infected or damaged, it can lead to severe pain and sensitivity, often referred to as a “dying tooth.”

Without intervention, the damaged tissue can compromise the health of the tooth and leadto the need for an extraction. However, a root canal procedure can often save a dying tooth, preventing the need for extraction and preserving the natural tooth structure.

Here’s what you need to know about whether a root canal can save a dying tooth.

The Root Canal Procedure: Restoring Tooth Health

A root canal is a dental procedure in which your dentist removes the infected or damaged dental pulp from the tooth’s interior [1]. Then, they will disinfect and seal the inner chamber before placing a dental crown on the restored tooth.

The empty root canal is sealed with a biocompatible material that helps prevent further issues with the tooth. A dental crown is part of the final restoration to strengthen and protect the affected tooth and restore its function and appearance.

Your dental crown will be custom-made to match the natural shape and color of the tooth, ensuring that it seamlessly blends with your other natural teeth.

Preserving Natural Teeth and Function

One of the key benefits of a successful root canal procedure is its ability to preserve the natural tooth and its function.

By saving a dying tooth through a root canal, patients can keep their natural tooth, avoiding the need for tooth extraction and tooth replacement options such as dental implants or bridges [2].

Additionally, preserving the natural tooth structure helps patients maintain their normal chewing capabilities and prevents the adjacent teeth from shifting, which can lead to bite misalignment and potential jaw issues.

Furthermore, saving a natural tooth through root canal therapy can prevent the loss of healthy bone structure in the jaw, preserving overall dental health and supporting proper facial aesthetics.

Long-Term Success and Care

After a root canal, the treated tooth can remain functional for many years, if not a lifetime, with proper care and maintenance [3].

Patients should follow good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dentist visits for routine check-ups. Additionally, avoiding excessive force on the treated tooth, such as biting on hard objects, can help prevent damage to the restored tooth.

A root canal offers a high success rate in saving a dying tooth, providing long-term relief from pain and restoring the tooth’s health and function. It’s essential to follow your dentist’s recommendations for post-treatment care to ensure the continued success of the procedure.

Do You Need a Root Canal?

A root canal can effectively save a dying tooth, offering numerous benefits to patients who want to keep their natural tooth and avoid a replacement. Are you experiencing symptoms of a dying tooth, such as tooth discoloration, infection, or pain? If so, don’t wait to schedule an appointment with your dentist to see if you could save your tooth with root canal therapy!