Root Canals: Get The Facts and Figures

The endodontist at Foundation Endodontics is proud to be among a select group of specialists who are expertly trained and experienced in performing root canals, a long-lasting and highly successful tooth-saving procedure that relieves pain while avoiding an extraction. Advances in technology, techniques and anesthesia have made our treatment more efficient while minimizing discomfort.

We’ve asked our colleagues at the American Association of Endodontics to provide some interesting statistics to illustrate what we do.

• There are more than 15 million root canal procedures performed each year in the United States, according to the AAE, with adults aged 25-44 tending to be the most commonly treated age group. This may be due to factors such as the increased probability of dental injuries among people in this age range, and the accumulation of dental problems over time.
• The most common reasons among patients requiring root canal treatment are tooth decay leading to infection and damage to the tooth's pulp; Injuries to the teeth, such as those occurring during accidents or while participating in sports; fractured or cracked teeth, which expose the tooth's pulp to bacteria and ultimately lead to infection; and as a result of complications from previous dental treatments, such as crowns or fillings.
• The success rate of root canal procedures is extremely high, with studies indicating that more than 95 percent of all root canal treatments remain effective for five years or longer. Even when a root canal requires retreatment due to a persistent infection or other types of complications, the retreatment success rate is also high.

If you are experiencing persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, a loose, discolored or broken tooth, swollen gums, persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth, please contact our endodontist at Foundation Endodontics. We are uniquely qualified to provide effective treatment for relieving pain while preserving your natural tooth whenever possible — efficiently and with only minimal discomfort.