Root canal treatments are highly successful, with success rates of over 95%. When performed properly, a root canal can save and keep a tooth functional for many years. The treated tooth can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. In some cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal might need further treatment in the future, but these cases are relatively rare.

The primary difference lies in the goal and outcome of the procedures:

• Root Canal: The aim is to save the natural tooth. The procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and then filling and sealing it. This allows the tooth to remain in place, maintaining the natural bite and jaw alignment.

• Tooth Extraction: This involves completely removing the tooth from the mouth. Extractions are generally considered a last resort when a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be saved. After an extraction, a dental implant or bridge may be needed to fill the space and prevent other teeth from shifting.

We weigh how much healthy tooth structure remains, the extent of infection, the stability of the surrounding bone and gum, and your goals. If the tooth can be predictably restored after cleaning the infection inside the root, a root canal with a final crown preserves your natural tooth and bite. Extraction is considered when the crack extends below the bone, the tooth cannot be sealed reliably, or the long-term prognosis is poor. We review x-rays and a clinical exam with you so the choice is clear and aligned with your priorities.

Mild aching or tenderness for a few days is common as inflamed tissues around the root settle, especially when chewing. Throbbing that is gradually improving is usually part of the normal healing process. Manage discomfort with recommended pain relief, a soft diet, and gentle brushing. If pain is worsening, you have swelling, fever, or pain when touching the tooth that does not ease, contact us. You may simply need an adjustment to the temporary or bite, or in some cases, additional care to calm lingering inflammation.

Even well-done root canals can fail if bacteria re-enter the tooth through a leaking filling or crown, if a hidden canal was missed, or if a root develops a crack. Over time, wear at the edges of the restoration can open tiny gaps that allow bacteria to seep in. Symptoms can include tenderness, swelling, a small gum pimple, or a dull ache. Retreatment or a small surgical procedure can often resolve the issue and save the tooth, followed by a well-sealed final restoration.

Many straightforward root canals can be completed comfortably in a single visit using modern techniques and instruments. We may recommend two visits if the infection is significant, if multiple canals are complex, or if we want to place medication inside the tooth to calm inflammation before sealing it. Our priority is predictable comfort and long-term success, so we will choose the approach that gives your tooth the best outcome and gets you back to normal quickly.

Numbness from local anesthesia typically wears off within 2 to 4 hours, though it can last a bit longer depending on the anesthetic and individual response. While you are numb, avoid chewing on your cheek, lip, or tongue and stick to softer foods. If numbness persists much longer than expected or is accompanied by unusual symptoms, let us know so we can check in. Most people are comfortable resuming normal activities the same day once sensation returns.

Delaying treatment allows bacteria to spread deeper into the tooth and surrounding bone, which can lead to a painful abscess, swelling, and bone loss that makes saving the tooth more difficult. The infection can also affect your general health and may eventually require an extraction. Treating the tooth sooner removes the infection source, relieves pain, and preserves your natural bite. If you are unsure about timing, we can often provide a short-term plan to keep you comfortable while you schedule definitive care.

Right after treatment, choose soft foods such as yogurt, eggs, soups, mashed potatoes, pasta, and smoothies, and avoid very hot, hard, or sticky foods until tenderness resolves. If you are wearing a temporary crown, chew on the opposite side and avoid gum, sticky foods such as  caramels. After the permanent crown is placed and the bite feels comfortable, you can return to your normal diet. Good brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings keep the area healthy while it heals.

Many root canal teeth last for decades when the tooth is properly cleaned, sealed, and protected with a well-fitting crown. Success depends on the quality of the root canal treatment, the final restoration, your bite forces, and your oral hygiene. While most teeth do not need another root canal, retreatment can be successful if a new leak or missed canal causes symptoms later. Regular exams let us monitor the tooth and keep the surrounding gum and bone healthy.

Warning signs include a small pimple on the gum that drains occasionally, swelling or tenderness when chewing, persistent bad taste, or a dull ache that comes and goes. Sometimes there are no obvious symptoms and an x-ray reveals a slow change at the root tip. If you notice these changes, we will examine the area, take an x-ray, and discuss options such as retreatment or a minor surgical procedure to clean the area and reseal the tooth.

Antibiotics can reduce swelling and ease symptoms temporarily, but they cannot reach and clean the infected tissue inside the root system. Without removing the source of infection, symptoms typically return. A root canal physically cleans, disinfects, and seals the inside of the tooth, which is why it is the definitive treatment to save an infected tooth. We use antibiotics only when appropriate as a support, not as a stand-alone cure.

Yes. A root canal removes the nerve and infection inside the tooth, but the outer tooth structure can still develop decay, especially at the edges of the crown or filling. Daily brushing and flossing, limiting frequent sugar exposures, and regular checkups are key to protecting the restored tooth. If we detect early changes at the margin, a simple repair can often prevent a larger problem and keep your tooth strong.