Maybe you have experienced the same symptoms before and know you need a root canal, or perhaps your dentist has informed you that you need one. It’s never in your best interest to delay a recommended root canal treatment. Suppose your dental provider says you need a root canal performed. In that case, it’s best to get it done as soon as possible to avoid further complications and pain.
Complications Caused by Putting off a Root Canal
Pressure and Swelling
As the tooth infection continues to spread, it can cause constantly increasing levels of pain and pressure in the face, neck, and head. Depending on the location of the infection, this pressure and swelling can cause discomfort and even impact daily function.
Systemic Inflammation
When an untreated tooth infection is left to fester, inflammation can spread throughout the mouth and even the entire body. This systemic inflammation significantly increases the risk of developing heart problems and increases the likelihood of experiencing a stroke.
Drainage Issues
In severe cases, the overwhelming presence of harmful bacteria can create an opening on the tooth’s side, allowing the infection to drain into nearby tissues such as the gums, cheeks, or skin. Should the infection enter the bloodstream, it poses a grave risk of causing sepsis, a life-threatening systemic medical condition.
Abscess Formation
An advancing tooth infection may result in the formation of an abscess—a localized pocket of pus at the root tip of the affected tooth. Unfortunately, an abscessed tooth demands urgent dental attention to address the infection and alleviate the associated pain and swelling.
Tooth and Bone Loss
Prolonged infection and inflammation can cause bone loss around the root of the affected tooth. This extensive decay compromises the structural integrity of the tooth, ultimately leading to its loss. Additionally, the surrounding bone may also deteriorate, further exacerbating the oral health issue and potentially necessitating extensive dental procedures for restoration.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
What is the Most Painful Part of a Root Canal?
The most painful part of a root canal isn’t the procedure itself. Rather, it’s the pain in the tooth leading up to having the procedure done. The need for a root canal can cause excruciating pain that will only get worse over time and can spread throughout the mouth. The sooner you receive a root canal, the sooner you can begin to feel better. While you may feel some discomfort during the procedure, kind of like getting a cavity filled, it shouldn’t be extremely painful.
How Long Does it Take for a Root Canal to Heal?
In general, most root canals will take between one and two weeks to fully heal. However, total healing can take longer in some cases, such as those with severe infection or large areas of infection. It’s essential to consult with your own dental provider to determine how long it might take your own root canal to heal.
Rosewood Dental: Your Trusted Root Canal Providers
At Rosewood Dental, we know that getting a root canal is probably one of the last things you want to do. However, we value your dental and overall health enough to be honest with you when a root canal is the best treatment option for you. We don’t want you to put this procedure off when you need it. Our experienced provider will work with you to make your root canal procedure as comfortable and as painless as possible.
Call 301-515-2466 today to schedule a consultation or book an appointment. We look forward to providing safe and comfortable dental care to meet your specific dental health goals and needs.