What Happens if You Don’t Get a Root Canal?

Are you experiencing persistent toothache, sensitivity, or swelling in your gums? It could be due to tooth decay, cracks, or infections. When your condition gets worse, to prevent further damage, dentists recommend a root canal. But if you are wondering what exactly is a root canal, and what happens if you don’t get one? In this blog post, you’ll get answers to all the common questions you might have regarding root canals.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure that removes the infected/inflamed pulp from inside a tooth. The tooth is then cleaned, disinfected, filled, and sealed. 

(A pulp is a soft tissue present beneath the white enamel and dentin (a hard tooth layer). The pulp consists of connective tissues, nerves and blood vessels. Once a tooth is fully developed, it may not require a pulp to nourish and grow further. So, if your dentist recommends removing the infected pulp, there is nothing to worry about.) 

So basically, this dental procedure helps patients preserve their original tooth by eliminating the bacteria from the root canal. This prevents the spreading of infection. 

When Do People Need This Procedure?

You may need a root canal when you experience one or more of the following:

1. A persistent, throbbing toothache that may intensify over time.  

2. Increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, sweet or sour tastes, or pressure applied to the tooth.  

3. Swelling, tenderness, or redness in the gums surrounding the affected tooth.  

4. A cracked or chipped tooth that exposes the pulp or allows bacteria to enter.  

5. A painful pocket at the tip of the root filled with pus.  

What if I Choose Not to Get a Root Canal?

Now that you have learned when you will need this dental treatment, you might be wondering whether it is necessary or whether you can do well without it. Here is the answer to your questions!

Unfortunately, if you don’t get it done, the following conditions may develop eventually:

1. Increased Pain: The infection or damage will continue to worsen, causing excruciating pain that can radiate to other parts of your face and head.

2. Abscess Formation: The infection can lead to the formation of an abscess, a painful, pus-filled pocket that can cause swelling, redness, and discomfort.

3. Tooth Loss: Unattended infection spreads to the adjacent bone and tissue, leading to tooth loosening and eventual loss.

4. Systemic Infections: Such infections are sometimes disseminated into other parts of your body, such as your heart, lungs, or brain, causing dangerous conditions.

5. Sinusitis and Respiratory Problems: Infection of the sinuses or respiratory tract leads to sinusitis, bronchitis, or pneumonia.

6. Gum Disease and Bone Loss: An advancing infection can lead to gum disease, which is accompanied by bone loss and tooth loosening due to continued infection.

7. Malocclusion and Bite Distortions: Loss of one or more or even shifting of teeth out of position may lead to.

What Happens if You Delay the Procedure?

If you delay the treatment, then you will have even bigger and more costly treatments. A few examples are the following:

1. Extraction and replacement: This involves removing the infected tooth and replacing it with a dental implant, bridge, or denture.

2. Apicoectomy: This is an operative procedure in which the root tip is excised. In most cases, it’s more complicated and expensive than a root canal procedure.

3. Bone Grafting: This procedure is used to restore or reconstruct the bone around-the patient doesn’t always need this procedure.

Alternatives to Root Canal

Depending on the severity of the damage, alternatives may be

• Direct pulp capping: This is a procedure where a material is placed directly on the exposed pulp to protect it and promote healing.
• Pulpotomy: This is a procedure in which the infected pulp is removed, and the tooth is filled up.
• Tooth extraction: The tooth might be too damaged and irreversible, thus requiring extraction.

Please note that the following alternatives may not always work, and in some cases, a root canal would be the only way to save your tooth.

How Painful is a Root Canal?

Honestly, it’s not as bad as you might think. You’ll feel some pressure during the procedure because of the anesthesia. Afterwards, you may experience pain and sensitivity in your mouth for a few days. This discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

How long does the discomfort last after having a root canal completed?

Usually, the pain and sensitivity are short-lived. If the symptoms persist, though, you should visit your dentist. You might need additional treatment, such as cleaning out the canals again or getting a new crown.

What are the Advantages of Having a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure that can provide numerous benefits for patients with infected or damaged teeth. Let’s learn about them: 

1. Pain-Free Procedure 

A root canal is generally less painful than a tooth extraction, as it causes less discomfort during recovery. However, if you have your tooth extracted, this may not be the case. With modern techniques, it has become even more convenient, as patients report it as much more painless. 

2. Eliminate Temperature Sensitivity

Do you love ice cream or warm soup, but tooth inflammation prevents you from enjoying them? This is a common indication that you may need a root canal. Removing the damaged nerves can help eliminate tooth sensitivity, allowing you to return to normal life and enjoy both cold and hot food.

3. Saving Your Natural Tooth

Your dentist can save your teeth by removing the infected pulp, cleaning the canal, and preserving its structure.

4. Preventing Future Infections

A root canal removes the infected pulp and seals the tooth, preventing future infections.

5. Restoring Oral Function

A root canal preserves the tooth’s structure, allowing you to chew and speak normally. This improves your quality of life by making eating and speaking easier.

6. Preventing Systemic Infections

A root canal prevents systemic infections by removing the infected pulp and sealing the canal, protecting your overall health.

For More Questions, Get Expert Advice Now.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to an expert for guidance. If you’re dealing with tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, or any other dental emergency, know that you can rely on Emergency Dental 365. Our caring and experienced team is here for you seven days a week, from 6 AM to 10 PM, ready to provide the prompt and professional care you deserve. Call us now to schedule a same-day appointment, and let us help you get back to smiling with confidence!