If you’ve been told that you need a root canal, you might be feeling anxious or unsure about whether this treatment is truly necessary. At Elite Endodontics, we aim to provide clarity and address any concerns you may have.
What Happens If You Ignore a Tooth That Needs a Root Canal?
Ignoring a tooth that requires a root canal can lead to serious consequences. The primary issue is that the infection inside the tooth will not resolve on its own and can spread to other areas of your body. Here’s what can happen if you delay or avoid treatment:
- Increased Pain — The infection can cause severe pain that may become constant and unmanageable.
- Abscess Formation — An untreated infection can lead to an abscess, a pus-filled pocket that forms at the base of the tooth. This can cause significant swelling and more intense pain.
- Bone Loss — The infection can spread to the surrounding bone tissue, causing bone loss around the affected tooth.
- Systemic Issues — In rare cases, the infection can enter the bloodstream and lead to more severe health issues, such as sepsis, which is a life-threatening condition.
Is a Tooth Extraction Better Than a Root Canal?
When deciding between a root canal and a tooth extraction, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option.
Root Canal
The purpose of a root canal is to save the natural tooth by removing the infection from the inside. A root canal procedure involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting inside the tooth, and sealing the tooth.
Some of the benefits of a root canal include:
- Preserve your natural tooth, maintaining your bite and jaw structure.
- Quicker recovery with fewer complications than an extraction
- Less expensive in the long term compared to extracting and replacing a tooth.
Tooth Extraction
The purpose of tooth extraction is to simply remove the entire tooth when it cannot be saved. Some of the benefits of an extraction include:
- Eliminates the source of infection
- Can be a quicker procedure initially
While an extraction is a quick way to remove the infected tooth, there are a few drawbacks:
- Requires follow-up treatments to replace the missing tooth, such as implants, bridges, or dentures, which can be costly and time-consuming.
- Potential for shifting of adjacent teeth and changes in jaw structure if the missing tooth is not replaced.
- Involves a longer and sometimes more painful recovery process.
Whenever possible, dental providers will aim to save the natural tooth by doing a root canal and filling or crown versus extracting the tooth because it often provides better functional and aesthetic outcomes in the long term.
Is It Ever Too Late for a Root Canal?
It’s always best to address a dental infection promptly so it does not spread to the surrounding tissues/bone. However, if you have put it off, don’t hesitate to see a dental provider to get their opinion on if your tooth is still able to be saved.
However, there are some circumstances where the damage may be too extensive, making a root canal less viable. These include:
- Severe Bone Loss — Significant bone loss around the affected tooth can compromise its stability.
- Fractured Tooth — If the tooth has fractured beyond repair, it may need to be extracted instead.
- Extensive Decay — If decay has destroyed most of the tooth structure, saving the tooth may not be feasible.
That said, it’s important to consult with an endodontist as soon as possible to explore your options. Early intervention can often salvage even severely damaged teeth.
Can an Abscessed Tooth Be Saved Without a Root Canal?
An abscessed tooth is a clear indication of an infection that has reached the tooth’s pulp and possibly the surrounding bone. While some temporary measures can alleviate symptoms, they do not address the root cause of the infection and it’s important to seek dental care immediately.
Temporary Remedies
- Antibiotics — These can help reduce infection and swelling temporarily but do not eliminate the source of the infection within the tooth.
- Pain Relievers — Over-the-counter pain medications can help manage discomfort but offer no lasting solution.
Permanent Solution
A root canal is typically necessary to remove the infected tissue, clean and disinfect the area, and seal the tooth to prevent further infection. Without this treatment, the abscess is likely to return, and the infection can worsen.
If you’ve been advised to get a root canal, it’s essential to understand the implications of delaying or avoiding treatment. Root canals are highly effective at saving natural teeth, preventing further complications, and ensuring long-term oral health. At Elite Endodontics, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality care and helping you make informed decisions about your dental treatment. If you have any questions or need to schedule a consultation, please contact us today. Your smile and health are our top priorities.