No one looks forward to a root canal. In fact, people tend to put it off for as long as possible due to a variety of reasons from dental anxiety to financial hardships.
What happens if you don’t get a root canal when you need one? Learn about the consequences of waiting too long to get a root canal.
Why Do I Need a Root Canal?
A root canal may be recommended due to any of the following:
- Infection. If bacteria reaches the inner chamber of a tooth (the root canal) it can infect the dental pulp, the soft tissue at the center.
- Deep or large cavity. A cavity that is deep or large enough to reach the dentin, the soft layer beneath the enamel, puts the tooth at a high risk of infection.
- Cracked tooth. A cracked or fractured tooth is also at a high risk of infection as bacteria can reach the root canal through the crack.
- Discolored tooth. If a tooth looks dark or gray at the center it indicates damage to the dental pulp that has caused internal bleeding.
- Knocked out tooth. A tooth that is knocked out can often be reimplanted, but that tooth is likely to need a root canal due to damage.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure used to treat or prevent a tooth infection. A small hole is made in the crown of the tooth to access the root canal and remove the dental pulp. The root canal is then thoroughly cleaned out and disinfected to remove all bacteria and tissue. A special material is used to fill the tooth that is resistant to infection. The tooth is sealed and covered with a crown for protection.
Potential Consequences of Putting Off a Root Canal
If you have a toothache or your dentist recommends a root canal, waiting too long to get it done can result in some severe consequences:
- Pain. If your tooth already hurts the pain will only get worse. If your dentist recommends a root canal before your tooth is infected, a root canal can prevent you from feeling any pain.
- Infection. A tooth that is cracked or has a deep cavity is at risk of infection. Waiting too long to get a root canal may allow an infection to develop, which is more complex to treat.
- Spread of infection. A tooth infection will not go away on its own. It will spread to the tissues around the tooth, the neighboring teeth, and may eventually enter your bloodstream and spread throughout your body.
- Loss of the tooth. If you put off a root canal for too long the tooth may be too damaged to save and will have to be extracted.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
How long does a root canal take?
A root canal may take anywhere from 30-90 minutes. The complexity of the root structure and the size of the tooth will affect the length of the procedure.
Does a root canal hurt?
Local anesthesia is used to ensure that the procedure is comfortable. If you feel anxious or nervous about the procedure, sedation options are available to help you relax.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Don’t put off a necessary root canal any longer. The sooner you have the procedure, the better you will feel. Schedule an appointment today with Emerson Dental to avoid any discomfort and have the best chance of saving your natural tooth.
Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.