Root canal treatment can lead to tooth decay and gum disease in a tooth. Only the difference is that a root-canal treated tooth does not have a nerve or blood supply and is not sensitive to cold or hot foods.
The crown covers the treated tooth so that the original tooth structure is not visible above the gum line. Many patients believe there is no risk of tooth decay. But, decay can develop around crown edges and could lead to tooth loss if it is not treated. The crown and fillings placed on the tooth treated with root canals protect it from damage. However, decay can form around the edges of the crown. Root canals tend to dry out and crack.
Oral bacteria can cause dental decay, or caries. However, just because you have bacteria in your mouth doesn’t mean that you will get decay. Factors such as sugar are necessary for decay to occur. The bacteria absorbs sugars from foods you eat. They release acid after they have consumed those sugars. The acid then attacks the enamel, the mineralized portion of the teeth. It weakens it. Cavitation occurs when the hard enamel shell of the tooth begins to dissolve. This can happen on any tooth surface, regardless of whether it is vital (a tooth that has nerves and blood supply), or non-vital.
Regular dental check-ups and proper brushing and flossing can prevent cavities and sugary and acidic bacteria. Contact a Claremont dentist today if you have had a root canal treatment done to a tooth/teeth.
