Overview
A root canal treatment is a dental operation that uses a root filling to restore a tooth's damaged or diseased pulp. The pulp is the tooth's lifeline; its capillaries, tissue fibers, and nerves in the tooth's internal hollow keep it alive. Endodontic therapy is the process of replacing this damaged or diseased pulp. Endodontic therapy has a good success rate in general. Approximately 90 to 95 percent of persons who have root canal therapy can expect to have a functioning tooth following the procedure. The fixed tooth should survive a very long time if you maintain proper oral hygiene, avoid excessive sugar consumption, and have frequent dental exams. Of course, no therapy or replacement will outlast a natural tooth.