How Long Does a Root Canal Last? Truth About Durability

What does a root canal involve, and why is it done?

A root canal is performed when the soft inner tissue (pulp) of a tooth becomes infected or severely inflamed due to deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. The treatment involves removing the damaged pulp, cleaning and shaping the root canals, and sealing them to prevent further infection.

By preserving the natural tooth structure, a root canal prevents the need for extraction and helps maintain overall dental function. The procedure is usually completed in one or two visits and is often followed by the placement of a crown to restore strength and appearance.

Given the average root canal treatment cost in Malaysia ranges from RM500 to RM2,000 depending on tooth complexity, it’s essential to ensure the treatment lasts as long as possible.

How long can a root canal-treated tooth last?

With proper care, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy can last a lifetime. Studies show that more than 90% of root canal-treated teeth remain functional after 10 years, and many last well beyond that.

However, the long-term success of a root canal depends on several factors, including the skill of the dentist, the severity of the original infection, the quality of the final restoration, and the patient’s oral hygiene habits.

At White Perfect Dental, we use advanced techniques and modern technology to maximise the success rate of every root canal treatment, ensuring that your smile stays healthy and strong for years to come.

What factors influence the longevity of a root canal?

Several key factors determine how long your root canal-treated tooth will last:

• Tooth location: Molars are harder to treat due to their multiple canals and are subjected to more pressure during chewing. Front teeth generally have higher success rates.
• Extent of decay or infection: The more severe the infection, the more complex the procedure. Early intervention typically leads to better outcomes.
• Restoration quality: A well-placed filling or crown significantly enhances durability. A crown is especially important for back teeth to prevent fractures.
• Oral hygiene: Brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining root canal-treated teeth.
• Bite force and grinding: Excessive pressure from bruxism (teeth grinding) can weaken the treated tooth over time. Wearing a night guard may help preserve the restoration.

Patients who follow post-treatment care instructions and maintain regular dental visits are more likely to enjoy long-lasting results.

Is retreatment necessary, and when might it happen?

While most root canals are successful on the first attempt, some teeth may require retreatment due to reinfection or complications. This can occur if:

• The tooth was not properly sealed
• A canal was missed during the first procedure
• New decay affects the treated area
• The crown or filling becomes loose or damaged

Retreatment involves reopening the tooth, cleaning out the infection, and resealing the canals. Though it adds to the overall root canal treatment cost, retreatment is often less invasive than extraction and replacement with an implant or bridge.

At White Perfect Dental, we perform thorough evaluations before, during, and after treatment to reduce the likelihood of retreatment and help our patients maintain long-term dental health.