Root canal treatment Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, February 2009.
Answers to questions about root canal treatment
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.
- Can I get a root canal treated and a crown placed on top during the same appointment?
- How long will the restored tooth last?
- What are my options if the root canal infection returns?
- What foods should I avoid after root canal treatment?
Can I get a root canal treated and a crown placed on top during the same appointment?
Usually root canal treatment is done over two or three appointments. After having the diseased pulp (living tissue) removed from the root canal, your dentist may want to leave the tooth open for a few days to allow time for it to drain and the infection to clear before putting in a permanent filling and fixing a crown over the tooth.
Explanation
Root canal treatment often involves from one to three visits. During your first visit, your dentist removes the diseased pulp. The pulp chamber and root canal(s) of the tooth are then cleaned and sealed. Medicines may be put in the pulp chamber and root canal(s) to help get rid of germs and prevent or treat infection. Your dentist may then leave the tooth open for a few days to drain. You may also be given medicine to help treat infection that may have spread beyond the tooth.
During your second visit the pulp chamber and root canal(s) are cleaned and filled with a permanent filling. In the final step, a gold or porcelain crown is usually placed over the tooth. This may be done during your second visit or at a third appointment.
Sources
- Root canal (endodontic) treatment. American Dental Association. www.ada.org, accessed 16 September 2008
How long will the restored tooth last?
Your root-treated tooth could last a lifetime if you maintain good dental hygiene.
Explanation
Your root-treated tooth will remain healthy as long as the root is nourished by the tissues around it. After treatment it's important that you take care of your repaired tooth as you would any other. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and visit your dentist regularly. Your root-treated tooth could last a lifetime if you maintain good dental hygiene. Crowns, however last about 10 to 15 years and will need replacing.
Sources
- Root canal (endodontic) treatment. American Dental Association. www.ada.org, accessed 16 September 2008
What are my options if the root canal infection returns?
Root canal treatment can be repeated if the infection returns.
Explanation
It's possible for the roots to become re-infected especially if good dental hygiene isn't maintained. If this happens, your dentist may recommend repeat root canal treatment. If the tooth is badly infected, your dentist may suggest removing the tooth completely and replacing it with a false tooth.
Sources
- Root canal (endodontic) treatment. American Dental Association. www.ada.org, accessed 18 September 2008
What foods should I avoid after root canal treatment?
It's best to limit sugary or acidic food and drink, as well as alcohol and smoking.
Explanation
After treatment it's important that you take care of your repaired tooth as you would any other. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and visit your dentist regularly. Limit sugary or acidic food and drink, as well as alcohol and smoking as these encourage tooth decay and erosion.
Drinking alcohol and smoking are associated with an increased risk of developing mouth cancer. Smoking also stains the teeth and increases the risk of gum disease and tooth loss. Alcoholic drinks, and the mixers used with them, often contain a lot of sugar, and so increase the risk of tooth decay.
Sources
- Root canal (endodontic) treatment. American Dental Association. www.ada.org, accessed 18 September 2008
Related topics
- Root canal treatment
- Caring for your teeth
- Dental injuries
- Dental treatments - fillings and crowns
- Having a tooth removed
- Replacing missing teeth
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: February 2009
Root canal treatment factsheet
Visit the root canal treatment health factsheet for more information.
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