When you visit the dentist for a severe toothache, they may tell you that a root canal treatment is necessary to address the issue. However, you might be nervous about undergoing the procedure, and as such, you may be wondering whether skipping it is a viable option. The simple fact of the matter is that not having the treatment performed will only lead to even worse problems for your smile. Below is a closer look at root canals and the consequences of avoiding them.
When is a Root Canal Treatment Performed?
Your dentist may recommend a root canal treatment if you have an infected tooth. When a cavity is left untreated for too long, harmful bacteria can eventually make their way to the pulp, which is a collection of connective tissues, nerves, and blood vessels at the center of the tooth. If the pulp becomes infected, it can cause a significant amount of pain. A root canal treatment allows your dentist to remove the pulp, thus getting rid of the source of the infection.
What Can Happen If You Avoid Root Canal Treatment?
You may think that your tooth infection will go away by itself if you simply wait long enough. Sadly, this is not the case. The longer you avoid undergoing root canal treatment, the more severe the infection will get. Eventually, it could start to spread to other parts of your body, which in turn could potentially lead to life-threatening health issues such as sepsis. Furthermore, an untreated infection can badly damage the structure of the tooth. If the damage is severe enough, the tooth might have to be extracted.
Why Root Canal Treatment is Nothing to Be Afraid Of
A major reason why many people put off root canal treatment is that they’re afraid it will be painful. However, this is a myth. Your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb your mouth before moving forward with the procedure. As a result, you’re likely to find that root canal treatment is no more uncomfortable than receiving a filling. And if you’re still nervous about the procedure, you can ask your dentist whether they offer any sedation options to help you get your dental anxiety under control.
In short, if you want to avoid the worst consequences of a tooth infection, then it’s in your best interest to have a root canal treatment performed as soon as possible. The sooner you act, the sooner your dentist can save your tooth and put a stop to your dental pain.
About the Author
Dr. Sheri McIntosh is a graduate of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Her professional memberships include the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, the North Texas Dental Society, and the Academy of General Dentistry. At Distinguished Dental in Fort Worth, she helps patients save their infected teeth with comfortable root canal treatments. If you have a severe toothache, you can request an emergency appointment with Dr. McIntosh by calling (817) 337-8300.