When we think about our teeth, we usually don’t want to think about problems. But sometimes, things can go wrong, and one of those problems might be needing a root canal. If your dentist tells you that you need one, it’s important to understand what might happen if you delay getting the treatment. Delays in receiving a root canal can, however, result in serious complications, both oral and otherwise. We are now going to talk about what happens when the person postpones a root canal, the dangers of untreated infections, and the need to treat them early. SW Calgary dentist will also help with your further issues
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a routine dental treatment that serves to save an infected tooth. Inside each tooth, there is a part called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp gets infected or damaged, it can cause pain, swelling, and even make the tooth change color. During a root canal, the dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans out the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further infection. Regardless of this, a lot of people avoid or postpone treatment because of fear, expense, or lack of understanding about the procedure.
What happens if you don’t get a root canal?
Root canals become necessary when the pulp inside a tooth gets infected from deep decay, a crack in the tooth, or injury or trauma to the tooth. Risks of delaying a root canal are dangerous, as a root canal that goes untreated can lead to infection travelling to other parts of the mouth. At first, you’ll have minor pain, but as time goes by, the pain becomes severe. Here’s what will happen if you don’t get a root canal:
- Increased Sensitivity and Pain: Initially, the pain may be intermittent. But as the infection deepens, the pain is constant and severe. You can also have sensitivity to hot and cold substances.
- Swelling and Abscess: An abscess, a collection of pus next to the root of a tooth, may result from anuntreated tooth infection. This results in swelling on the gums, face, and even neck.
- Tooth Loss: If the infection is not addressed on time, the structure of the tooth becomes weak, and the tooth is lost. In a few instances, the dentist has no option but to remove the tooth.
- More Complex Treatment: Delaying treatment can lead to the need for more complex and expensive procedures, like tooth extraction and dental implants. This is often harder than just having a root canal.
Consequences of Convenience Delay in Canal Treatment
There might be dire consequences in postponing a root canal. Serious possible outcomes of deferring the procedure include:
- Intensification of Pain and Discomfort: Most root canal infections begin with a mild discomfort that can be disregarded at first. As the infection advances, though, it may develop into a throbbing, continuous pain that interferes with everyday life. In these situations, emergency care is required, which can be more costly and complicated.
- Spread of Infection: Bacteria infecting their teeth and other adjacent teeth, jawbone, and even systemically from an unpurged tooth infection.
- Bone Loss: Untreated infections weaken the jawbone over many years. It is difficult to install a dental implant in future.
- Impact on Overall Health: Overall health is closely related to oral health. A chronic dental infection can lead to diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems. Bacteria from an untreated root canal infection can travel into the bloodstream, impacting vital organs and posing more health risks, especially for those with weakened immune systems.
How Can You Tell If You Need a Root Canal?
It’s essential to recognize some signs that indicate you might need a root canal:
- Severe toothache or pain, especially when chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is removed
- Swelling and tenderness in the gums
- Discoloration of the tooth
- A recurring pimple on the gums
If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your dentist as soon as possible.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Get a Root Canal?
It’s not advisable to wait on getting root canal treatment. The sooner you are treated, the less damage there is, and the more chance there is of saving your tooth. A root canal consists of the removal of the infected pulp, cleaning of the tooth, and sealing of the tooth to prevent reinfection. With modern dentistry, the treatment is safe and far more comfortable than people tend to think. Putting off treatment only adds pain, expenses, and risks.
Get Expert Dental Care Today!
If you have a recurring toothache, don’t hesitate—come visit a reputable dentist today, with some of the better options such as Root Canal in SW Calgary. We, at Cedarbrae Family Dental, are trained to perform painless, quick root canal procedures. Our very professional staff is dedicated to ensuring your comfort while delivering full oral health. Book now to avoid the repercussions of postponing a root canal and protect your smile for the rest of your life!