What Happens If You Ignore a Tooth That Needs a Root Canal?

Root canal treatment

Tooth pain may start small but quickly evolve into a severe condition. Untreated, this may require more than a filling for the tooth. Root canal treatment in Boston can save badly infected teeth. We know that having such dental procedures intimidated many people.

However, ignoring the signs won’t make them disappear; rather, it complicates the situation. This blog covers what happens when root canal treatment is avoided and thereby how timely care can save the beautiful smile.

Why Might a Tooth Need a Root Canal?

A tooth goes for root canal treatment to clean and close the chamber of the tooth: This happens when the soft tissue within a tooth, called pulp, becomes infested by an agent, for example:

  • Deep cavities
  • A crack or break in the tooth
  • Heavy repeated work on that same tooth
  • Trauma or accident

An infection of pulp means the infection tends to spread. The longer you avoid getting it treated, the harder it is to save the tooth.

What Happens If You Ignore It?

Avoiding Root Canal Treatment Near You can lead to serious issues. 

Here’s what might happen:

  • Increased Pain: The infection will get worse, causing sharp or constant pain.
  • Abscess Formation: An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms at the root, causing swelling, fever, and a bad taste in your mouth.
  • Tooth Loss: Without treatment, the tooth may become too damaged and need extraction.
  • Spread of Infection: The bacteria can spread to other areas, including the jawbone and bloodstream, leading to more severe health issues.
  • Jawbone Damage: The infection can destroy parts of the jawbone over time.
  • Difficulty Eating: As the pain worsens, chewing becomes difficult, which may affect your nutrition and well-being.
  • Chronic Bad Breath: Ongoing infection can lead to a persistent foul smell, even with good oral hygiene.

Consequences of Ignoring a Root Canal

Ignored Condition Potential Consequence
Infected pulp Ongoing toothache and inflammation
No dental intervention Spread of infection to jawbone or nearby teeth
Formation of abscess Swelling, pain, and pus
Untreated abscess Fever and risk of systemic infection
Tooth left untreated Total tooth loss
Infection spreads further Jawbone deterioration and facial swelling
Ongoing decay Greater need for advanced dental procedures

Why Early Treatment Matters

Getting help from a dentist for Root Canal early prevents more complex procedures later. A quick root canal can:

  • Save your natural tooth
  • End the pain
  • Stop the spread of infection
  • Protect surrounding teeth

Root canal treatment today is much more comfortable and efficient than in the past. With modern tools and anesthesia, the procedure is often no more painful than a routine filling. 

Plus, early treatment helps maintain the natural structure of your tooth and prevents the shifting of nearby teeth.

What to Watch For

It’s important to know the signs that you might need a root canal. Look for:

  • Persistent pain when chewing
  • Sensitivity to heat or cold
  • Swollen or tender gums
  • A pimple-like bump near the gum
  • Darkening of the tooth

If you notice any of these, it’s time to see a root canal dentist near you.

Can You Delay the Procedure?

Even if the pain goes away, it doesn’t mean the infection is gone. Sometimes, the nerve dies, and the pain temporarily stops. But the infection continues to spread quietly. This delay often leads to more severe issues that could’ve been avoided.

Ignoring the problem can also lead to higher costs down the road, both for your health and your wallet. 

In some cases, a simple root canal therapy near you could turn into a tooth extraction and implant procedure.

Wrapping Up!

Ignoring a tooth that needs a root canal can lead to serious consequences. From pain and swelling to permanent tooth loss, delaying care only makes things worse. Getting early treatment is the best way to save your tooth and avoid complications.

Your Smile Deserves Expert Protection
If you suspect an infection or have tooth pain, trust a qualified dentist in Boston at Ellui Dental. Their team is experienced in safe and effective root canal procedures and will help restore your dental health with confidence.

Make a Change today.

Call our office at (617) 423-6777 for your Appointment!

781-528-0533