What Happens If You Delay a Root Canal? 

Root canals have a bad reputation and often can cause a wave of anxiety when mentioned. However, the truth is that this treatment can save your teeth and prevent more significant problems down the road. If you’ve been told you need a root canal but feel hesitant about moving forward, it’s essential to understand the potential consequences of waiting too long. Ignoring an infected tooth doesn’t make the problem go away. Instead, it often will lead to more pain, more extensive treatment, and even the loss of the infected tooth.

In this article, we’ll go through the warning signs that may indicate you need a root canal, as well as what to expect from the procedure itself.

Signs You May Need A Root Canal

The soft tissue inside your tooth is called pulp, which can become infected due to deep decay, trauma, or cracks. When this happens, you might notice:

• Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the temperature is gone
• Swollen or tender gums near the tooth
• A small bump (abscess) on the gums
• Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
• Visible cracks or damage

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, the best thing you can do is to schedule an evaluation with a dentist or endodontist. Early treatment can bring relief and significantly improve your chances of saving your tooth and avoiding complications.

What Happens If You Delay a Root Canal Too Long?

The Pain Gets Worse and Harder to Ignore

Initially, the discomfort may come and go, making it tempting to postpone treatment. But as the infection grows, so does the pain. Eventually, it can become constant and severe, making it difficult to eat, sleep, or focus on daily life. Over-the-counter pain relievers may provide temporary relief, but they won’t address the underlying issue.

The Infection Can Spread

An untreated infection doesn’t stay contained in your tooth. It can spread to the surrounding bone and gums, forming a painful abscess. In some cases, the bacteria can even enter your bloodstream, leading to serious health risks. What starts as a toothache could turn into a much larger medical concern.

You Could Lose the Tooth

A root canal is designed to save your natural tooth, but if the infection damages too much of the surrounding bone, extraction may become the only option. Losing a tooth affects more than just your smile; it can make chewing more difficult, cause neighboring teeth to shift, and complicate future dental work, such as implants or bridges.

Your Smile Could Suffer

An infected tooth can darken over time, creating a noticeable difference in your smile. Unlike surface stains, this discoloration comes from inside the tooth, meaning whitening treatments won’t help. While a root canal can stop the infection, you may need additional cosmetic dentistry to restore your tooth’s appearance.

Your Overall Health Could Be Affected

Remember, chronic oral infections are not just a dental issue. They are linked to broader health issues, including heart disease and diabetes. Taking care of your teeth is not just about preserving your smile, it’s about protecting your overall well-being. Don’t delay a root canal. Take action now to safeguard your health.

What To Expect During A Root Canal

You’re not alone if the idea of a root canal makes you feel nervous. However, modern dentistry has made the procedure far more comfortable than most people expect. Here’s how it works:

• Numbing the area: Your dentist will use local anesthesia to make sure you don’t feel any pain during the procedure.
• Removing the infection: To remove the infected pulp, a tiny hole is made through the teeth. Modern methods thoroughly clean and disinfect the tooth. Sometimes, gentle fluids and sound waves are used to clean out and thoroughly disinfect the tooth.
• Sealing and protecting the tooth: Once cleaned, the tooth is sealed to prevent any future infection.
• Recovery: Most patients experience only mild discomfort afterward, with pain subsiding within a couple of days.

Don’t Delay a Root Canal. Take Action Now to Save Your Smile

A tooth infection won’t go away on its own. If you’ve been delaying a root canal, now is the time to take action. At Carrie Muzny D.D.S., we’re here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile with expert dental care across North Houston, including Montgomery County, The Woodlands, and Spring, TX.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule your appointment online or request a complimentary virtual cosmetic consultation. If you have any questions, our friendly team is happy to assist. We’ll work with your schedule to make your visit as convenient as possible. You and your smile deserve the best care. Let’s ensure it remains healthy for years to come.