A root canal is a necessary and beneficial solution when a tooth is severely decayed but is not yet considered unsavable. Recommended by dentists to avoid extraction, it allows patients to maintain their natural smile with a customized dental crown. But what can happen if a person refuses treatment? Discover 3 consequences that can arise if an individual chooses not to undergo a root canal.
You Can Experience Increased Tooth Pain
If you decide not to move forward with a root canal, you risk worsening tooth pain that cannot be controlled with daily over-the-counter medications. Although the initial symptoms may be manageable, as the infection worsens, the pain will as well.
It is better to have the tooth treated with a root canal to stop the source of your discomfort – the infected pulp. By removing it, you can experience much-needed relief.
You Can Develop an Abscess
When too much time passes and a root canal is not performed, the infection can cause a painful bump to form on your gum tissues. It can begin to bleed or ooze pus when practicing your normal oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing. Without timely care, you can experience excruciating pain. Also, the infection can enter your bloodstream, negatively affecting the rest of your body.
You Can Lose Your Natural Tooth
Apart from overall health issues, you might also lose your natural tooth. When the infection reaches a certain point, your dentist will no longer recommend root canal treatment. Instead, the best (and safest) option will be to remove the tooth and replace it with an artificial restoration. Although this might sound like the best course of action initially, it is always best to try to save your natural smile, as it is stronger and sturdier.
Unfortunately, leaving an infected tooth in place only increases the risk that it will spread and harm nearby healthy teeth.
Don’t let your fear of root canals keep you from undergoing treatment when recommended. Addressing the problem now will help you avoid worsening symptoms and overall health issues later.
About Grand Dental – Lake Zurich
Our Grand Dental – Lake Zurich team consists of experienced dentists who offer root canal treatment for patients with severely infected teeth. By treating the problem area – the pulp – and effectively removing it, we can improve your oral health and alleviate any pain you might be experiencing. If you have a troubled tooth that needs further examination, visit our website or call (847) 443-3953 to schedule an appointment.