Toothaches usually begin as a small pain. But if they last, they might mean something more serious, like an infection inside the tooth. A root canal removes the infection to save the tooth. Delaying treatment can cause severe pain, health issues, and tooth loss. In this article, we’ll cover some important things to be aware of about when you need a root canal, the risks of waiting, and when to see your dentist.
When are root canal treatments important?
A root canal is necessary when the inner part of the tooth, known as the pulp, becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen due to deep decay, cracks, or repeated dental work on the same tooth. If we ignore these problems, bacteria can spread, causing severe pain, abscesses, and even tooth loss. Early intervention saves the tooth and stops other health problems from developing.
Common symptoms of the need for root canal treatment:
- Deep cavities that reach the tooth’s pulp.
- Cracks or fractures that expose the inner tooth.
- Severe pain or prolonged sensitivity to hot and cold.
- Swollen or tender gums near a specific tooth.
- Darkening or discolouration of a tooth.
- Trauma or injury affecting the tooth’s nerve.
Consequences of delaying root canal treatment
Delaying a root canal can turn a manageable dental issue into a serious health problem. Mild discomfort can turn into ongoing pain, infection, and tooth loss. Bacteria can spread and harm nearby tissues, the jawbone, and other parts of the body. Ignoring symptoms only makes the condition worse. It can also lead to more invasive and expensive treatments later. Seeking timely care helps prevent unnecessary complications.
Worsening pain and sensitivity.
Mild tooth pain can turn into severe, throbbing discomfort. This can make it hard to eat, drink, and sleep. The infection can irritate the nerves, making the tooth very sensitive to changes in temperature and pressure. Over time, pain relief methods may become ineffective.
Spread of infection to other areas.
An untreated tooth infection can spread past the root to reach the gums, jawbone, or even the sinuses. Sometimes, bacteria can get into the bloodstream. This raises the risk of serious conditions such as sepsis. Once the infection spreads, controlling it becomes more challenging.
Higher risk of tooth loss.
The longer an infection goes untreated, the more it harms the tooth and the supporting bone. If the damage becomes too extensive, extracting the tooth may be the only option.
Development of a dental abscess.
A pocket of pus can form at the base of the infected tooth, leading to swelling, intense pain, and sometimes fever. Without prompt treatment, the abscess may rupture, spreading the infection to nearby tissues. In severe cases, hospitalization may be needed to control the infection.
Increased costs of treatment.
A standard root canal could have fixed the problem, but now it might become more complex and costly. Delayed treatment can mean more procedures, like extractions, bone grafting, or dental implants. These can raise root canal treatment costs and lengthen recovery time.
Impact on overall health.
Oral infections can cause serious health issues. They may lead to heart disease and diabetes problems. Untreated bacteria in the mouth causes inflammation which can harm your overall health. Addressing dental infections early reduces the risk of related health issues.
When is the right time to visit a dentist for a root canal?
If you have any of these symptoms, book an appointment with your dentist:
- Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers.
- Swollen or tender gums near a painful tooth.
- A pimple-like bump on the gums (a sign of an abscess).
- Darkening or discoloration of the teeth.
Ignoring these signs can lead to more severe problems. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances of saving your tooth.
Final words
Delaying a root canal can put your oral and overall health at risk. The pain might go away for a while, but the infection will keep spreading. This can cause more serious problems. If you have signs of a tooth infection, don’t wait. Getting treated early can save your teeth and avoid expensive procedures later.
If you're in Deniliquin, NSW, Australia, or close by, our skilled team at Local Dental Clinic is here to offer expert dental care. We use our skills and experience to provide gentle, effective root canal treatments to restore your smile and relieve pain.
So, don't hesitate— book an appointment today.
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