Got a Root Canal — Now How Long Will That Tooth Actually Last?

How long will this tooth even last after all this drilling, disinfecting, and crown business? You’re not wrong for wondering. Root canals are expensive. They’re emotionally exhausting.

Let’s Clear Up the Myth

No, root canals don’t “kill” your tooth. But yes, they remove the nerve — which means your tooth is now essentially a zombie: it functions, it looks fine, but it’s no longer biologically alive.

This matters because

• No nerve = no pain signal (you won’t feel cracks or infections easily).
• No blood supply = more brittle tooth over time

That’s why post-root-canal care is everything.

So… How Long Does a Root-Canal Tooth Last?

1. Root canal + crown (good dentist): 10–20+ years
2. Root canal without crown: 5–8 years (if lucky)
3. Tooth left unprotected (no follow-up care) <5 years

What You Can Do to Make It Last

Get a crown: A root-canaled tooth is hollow and fragile. Crowns act like a helmet — no helmet, more risk.

Protect it from grinding: Night grinders often destroy dental work. A $30 guard on Amazon can save a $1,000 tooth.

Don’t chew rocks: Okay, not literal rocks — but ice, bones, or popcorn kernels? Yeah, those are your zombie tooth’s worst enemies.

Go to your checkups: You might not feel an infection, but X-rays will catch them before they turn into extraction appointments.

When It’s Better to Pull It

Sometimes, a root canal isn’t worth it.

• Tooth too decayed?
• The infection keeps coming back?
• You can’t afford a crown?

In these cases, extraction + implant might be smarter long-term. More expensive now, less stress later. If your dentist isn’t honest about this possibility, get a second opinion.

A Root Canal Tooth Can Last Decades — If You Treat It Like a Luxury Car

Your root canal tooth might not scream for help when it’s in trouble — but if you give it the respect it deserves, it can serve you faithfully for a long, long time.

And if you’re already past the root canal and worried? Go book that crown. Wear the night guard. Check the tooth. This isn’t fear — it’s self-preservation.