What Are The Consequences Of Delaying A Root Canal?

Introduction

Tooth pain isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s a warning sign.

When a tooth infection reaches deep inside, prompt root canal treatment can protect your natural tooth from permanent damage.

But putting it off comes at a cost, one that goes far beyond pain.

Delayed care can impact not only your oral health, but also your finances and overall wellness.

Here’s why acting early is crucial.

When is root canal treatment needed?

Here are some common symptoms that may indicate you need a root canal:

• Ongoing tooth pain: is among the most common and easily recognized signs. If you’re experiencing pain that doesn’t go away, it may signal that the tooth pulp is infected. The pain may worsen when eating or applying pressure to the tooth.
• Swollen or tender gums: Swelling around a particular tooth can be a sign of an underlying infection that isn’t immediately visible. The gum tissue might appear red or feel sore to the touch. In some cases, you might also notice a small pimple-like bump on the gums, which could be an abscess, a clear sign of infection that requires immediate care.
• Tooth darkening and discoloration: A tooth that has turned grey or dark brown may have a dying or dead nerve. This color change can occur when the internal tissue starts to break down, often due to trauma or untreated decay. Root Canal Therapy is commonly needed to eliminate the infected pulp and preserve the tooth’s structure.
• Cracked or chipped tooth: If your tooth has been damaged due to biting hard objects, trauma, or grinding, your dentist might suggest a root canal to prevent potential problems down the line.

Consequences of delaying a root canal

Delaying a root canal may seem harmless, especially if the pain seems manageable or temporarily fades.

Delaying treatment gives the infection time to spread, often resulting in complications that affect both your dental health and your overall wellness.

Here’s what can happen if you wait too long.

• Increased pain and discomfort: When a cavity or crack goes untreated, bacteria can reach the pulp, the tooth’s inner core containing nerves and blood vessels. As the infection spreads, pressure builds up inside the tooth, causing intense discomfort, especially when chewing or exposed to hot or cold temperatures. The pain might temporarily subside if the nerve inside the tooth dies due to prolonged infection. But this doesn’t mean the problem has been resolved; the disease may now be spreading silently, often making things worse without any warning signs.
• Spreading of the infection: If bacteria from the infected pulp can multiply unchecked, they can spread to nearby tissues, bones, and even organs. Possible complications include:
  1. Jawbone infection (osteomyelitis) – which can be painful and difficult to treat
  2. Sinus infections – especially if upper back teeth are involved
  3. Swelling in the face or neck – which can interfere with breathing in severe cases
  4. Abscess formation – a pus-filled pocket that may burst or spread to the bloodstream

In rare yet severe cases, an untreated tooth infection can spread to the bloodstream and cause sepsis, a potentially life-threatening condition that demands urgent medical attention.

• Tooth loss: The longer a tooth infection is left untreated, the more it can weaken and deteriorate the tooth’s structure. Eventually, the decay may become so extensive that saving the tooth is no longer possible, even with a root canal. In such cases, the only option left may be an extraction. Losing a natural tooth can affect your ability to chew, speak clearly, and maintain proper alignment of the rest of your teeth. Replacement options like implants or bridges are effective but more invasive, time-consuming, and expensive than a timely root canal.
• Impact on overall health: One often-overlooked consequence of delaying a root canal is its potential effect on your general health. Chronic inflammation and infection in the mouth have been linked to a range of systemic health problems, including:
  1. Heart disease – due to the inflammatory response triggered by oral bacteria
  2. Worsened diabetes control – infections can make blood sugar levels harder to manage
  3. Individuals with compromised immune systems – including seniors and those with chronic conditions; face a greater risk of complications. Treating an infected tooth promptly helps protect not only your oral health but also your overall well-being.

Key Takeaways

Delaying Root Canal Treatment can worsen pain, infection, and even tooth loss.

Pay attention to signs like persistent tooth pain, sensitivity, swelling, or discoloration; these often mean you need a root canal.If you’re looking for root canal treatment near you in Calgary, Heritage Pointe Dental has skilled root canal specialists ready to help.

We also provide emergency dental care services in Calgary.

If you’re experiencing any symptoms or have concerns about your dental health, don’t wait. Contact Heritage Pointe Dental today to book your consultation and get expert care tailored just for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does a root canal last?
  A root canal done by a root canal specialist can last a lifetime with proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.
• Are there any possible complications of root canal treatment?
  While rare complications like reinfection or incomplete cleaning of canals can occur, they’re often preventable with expert care and follow-up.