Root canals can happen to anyone at any age. Endodontic treatments of this nature are typically necessary in two different circumstances. Either the tooth has experienced a deep infection, or it has undergone so many treatments for previous decay that the tooth is losing its structural integrity. As a result, we generally see the instance of root canal treatment peak with two major age groups. So let’s look at the most common age for root canals.
Most Common Age for Root Canals 1: In Your Twenties
The first age group where we see a peak in endodontic care is 20-29 years of age. If you think that seems young, then you’re right. This group has a tendency to represent people who are economically disadvantaged or don’t have regular access to professional dental care. We can look at developing countries for examples as to how those circumstances can affect a population. In the case of Nigeria, nearly 43% of all root canal therapies were performed on patients between the ages of 20 and 29. For the most part, these patients had inadequate access to dental care as children, and advanced tooth decay is the result.
Of course, there are exceptions. We also see spikes in dental health concerns among college-aged adults who were not economically disadvantaged. Living away from parents for the first time often leads to a sink or float phenomenon that may cause some young adults to neglect their oral health. With that being said, it usually takes time for tooth decay to advance to the point of requiring a root canal at this age. Minor parental intervention in the form of reminders to see their dental specialists will hopefully be enough to keep their oral health in check while they figure out adult life.
Most Common Age for Root Canals 2: Throughout Middle Age
The next major increase in the demand for root canal therapy can be found in the forty-plus age group. At this age, you may still need a root canal thanks to new but advanced tooth decay. However, there is another possibility that may surprise you. If you’ve had multiple cavities in a given tooth that tooth may begin to lose its ability to hold itself together. You may need a root canal and a crown to save what’s left.
It’s perfectly normal for fillings to wear a little as you age. They aren’t designed to be permanent, and you’re technically supposed to have them replaced once they start to show wear. Unfortunately, it’s pretty rare for people to actually do that. And a worn or failing filling leaves your tooth vulnerable to bacteria and further decay. Have you had a filling on a tooth already and developed another cavity. Then you may need a root canal to provide the support your tooth needs.
Being Honest about Root Canals
Root canals may sound scary, but they’re actually a very common procedure with an incredibly high success rate. You can generally prevent them by practicing strict oral hygiene habits and visiting your dentist every six months. However, we’re all human. Sometimes we mess up. Under those circumstances the best thing you can do is take action and resolve to not repeat the same mistake in the future.
If you do need to get a root canal in Irvine, then talk to the experts at OC Dental Specialists. They’ll review your case and create a comprehensive treatment plan to ensure the best results in the most comfortable setting. Do you have serious dental anxiety? Sedation dentistry is available to remove all of the discomfort and fear that you may associate with the dentist’s office. Whatever it takes, your dentist will make sure that you receive the care you need with as little fuss as possible.