Delaying necessary dental procedures can have serious consequences, especially when it comes to root canals. Root canals are often necessary to save a tooth that has become infected or damaged due to decay or injury. However, many people put off this procedure due to fear, financial concerns, misconceptions or simply hoping the problem will go away on its own. However, the longer you wait to seek treatment, the more likely it will lead to serious consequences.
Increased Pain and Discomfort
One of the primary reasons people seek root canal treatment is because of intense pain and discomfort. When a tooth becomes infected or damaged, it can lead to throbbing pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures and discomfort while chewing. Delaying treatment only prolongs the distress, making everyday tasks like eating and drinking unbearable.
Risk of Infection Spread
Ignoring a tooth infection can allow it to spread to surrounding tissues, including the gums and jawbone. In severe cases, the infection can even lead to dental abscesses or a life-threatening heart attack, stroke or sepsis.
Risk of Tooth Loss
The most significant consequence of delaying a root canal is the potential loss of the affected tooth. Once a tooth reaches a certain level of decay or damage, it may no longer be salvageable through root canal alone. In such cases, extraction becomes the only option, leading to the need for more expensive dental procedures such as dental implants or bridges.
Understanding the root canal procedure as well as the impact that delaying it can likely provide you the motivation to get your tooth taken care of in a timely manner, saving you a lot of pain and additional expense. If you are in need of a root canal, please contact us at 416-868-4697 to set up an appointment.