“How long until a cavity becomes a root canal?”
I am a 27 year old female. I want to know how long it will take until a cavity becomes a root canal?
5 Answers
Hello,
It varies greatly and impossible to diagnose without X-rays at a minimum. The younger a person is, a cavity typically gets bigger at a faster rate. Enamel and dentin strength and consistency make a difference. The tooth number and area of decay also factors in as well as home care. Definitely not accurate, but if a cavity has just started, I would say one year as an average to grow to the depth of needing a root canal. But again... 50 variables that decide this.
Dr. J
It varies greatly and impossible to diagnose without X-rays at a minimum. The younger a person is, a cavity typically gets bigger at a faster rate. Enamel and dentin strength and consistency make a difference. The tooth number and area of decay also factors in as well as home care. Definitely not accurate, but if a cavity has just started, I would say one year as an average to grow to the depth of needing a root canal. But again... 50 variables that decide this.
Dr. J
It’s different for every scenario. For some people, the cavity can advance fairly rapidly. My suggestion would be to get the cavity taken care of early so you don’t find out....!!!
David M. Garazi, DMD
David M. Garazi, DMD
Thanks for asking. There is no accurate answer to that question. The rate that decay grows is different for each person. Also, each tooth is different. Things like whether the tooth has had treatment in the past, diet, medications and drugs, and home care all can contribute to the rate at which a cavity progresses.
Timing depends on personal resistance to bacterial growth and oral hygiene. Younger people may be more prone for faster spreading of the caries infection. Keep in mind that oral cavities are very contagious disease that can spread on other teeth and our loved ones.
Easiest answer is when you get to constant pain you’re probably there
