No one likes to hear they need a root canal. It can be challenging to find the time to go to the dentist for a procedure, especially one you aren’t looking forward to or are afraid may be uncomfortable. However, putting off a root canal can actually be more painful and put your dental and overall health at risk. It’s usually best to get a root canal done as soon as possible, and here’s why.
Swelling and Pain
You may already notice some swelling where your infected tooth is. As the infection continues to progress, you will experience increased pressure, pain, and swelling in the face, head, and neck. You may even notice that all of this is impacting your daily functioning.
Systemic Inflammation
In addition to swelling near the tooth and in the face, if a tooth infection is left untreated, it can cause inflammation to travel to the entire body. This is concerning as systemic inflammation notably raises the risk of developing heart problems and experiencing a stroke.
Risk of Sepsis
If the tooth infection becomes severe, the bacteria may spread into the surrounding gums, cheeks, and skin. Then, there’s a risk of it entering the bloodstream, which would lead to sepsis. Sepsis can be life-threatening and is a systemic medical condition requiring hospitalization.
Potential Tooth Abscess
If left to fest, a tooth infection could cause a tooth abscess—a pocket of pus at the root tip of the infected tooth, to form. This is the body’s attempt to wall off the infection and prevent it from spreading to other areas or causing sepsis.
Bone and Tooth Loss
Without a root canal, infection and inflammation can result in bone loss around the root of the affected tooth. The structural integrity of the tooth can be compromised by infection and decay, ultimately causing it to come loose. The jawbone in that area may also break down, potentially requiring extensive dental procedures for restoration.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a treatment to open an infected or decayed tooth and remove its pulp. Once this is done, the dental professional thoroughly cleans and disinfects inside the tooth its root canal. Finally, they refill the tooth and reseal it. A crown or other form of protection may also be placed, depending on the strength and location of the tooth. Typically, a dentist or an endodontist performs a root canal.
Will My Root Canal Be Successful?
The good news is that most root canals are successful and effective at providing pain relief and resolving infection. Every year, endodontists and dentists in the United States perform over 15 million root canals. Over 95 percent are effective and save the natural tooth.
Infected Tooth? Smiles on the Upper Westside Can Help
How long can you put off a root canal? You shouldn’t put it off at all. An infected or decayed tooth needs urgent dental attention to address the infection and alleviate the associated pain and swelling. Putting off this common and effective procedure can increase the risk of several other dental and overall health problems. It’s best to seek care and schedule a root canal right away.
If you know or suspect you need a root canal or are having tooth pain or other concerning symptoms, we are here for you. Call our New York City office today at 212-222-5225 to schedule a prompt appointment.