What Happens if You Delay Root Canal Therapy?

The Consequences of Delaying Root Canal Therapy: Why Timely Treatment is Important?

Often, root canal treatment can save a tooth that has cracked. It’s a rather simple and quick procedure that can reduce the need for an extraction or other more intensive treatment that would be more expensive. However, many people put off obtaining root canal therapy because they are afraid of the process or don’t know enough about it. In this article, we’ll discuss the significance of starting root canal therapy promptly and the possible consequences of delaying the process.

Let’s first talk about what happens during root canal treatment. The afflicted tooth will be numbed before the surgery is carried out by an endodontist. The pulp chamber, the innermost portion of the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and other soft tissue, is then accessed by drilling a tiny hole through the crown of the tooth. Following the removal of the contaminated or damaged pulp, the pulp chamber is cleaned and sanitized. The chamber is filled with a unique substance called gutta-percha after being thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Then, a dental filling or a dental crown is used to cover the gap in the tooth.

The fundamental objective of root canal therapy is to remove the harmed or infected pulp while protecting the tooth’s remaining structure. The tooth will continue to hurt and risk becoming infected if the pulp is not removed. An abscess, a more severe illness, might develop if the infection spreads to the nearby bone and tissue. A pocket of pus known as an abscess can result in severe discomfort, bruising, and fever. Additionally, if the infection is not treated, it may spread to other body regions and cause major medical issues.

It’s important to remember that postponing root canal therapy can result in higher expenditures. In general, root canal therapy is less expensive than extraction and bridge or implant replacement. Additionally, if an abscess forms, the treatment may become more difficult, expensive, and time-consuming.

It’s also crucial to note that root canal therapy is a reasonably easy and uncomplicated process. Because of their fears or preconceived notions about the surgery, many patients could be reluctant to seek treatment. However, most patients report little to no pain or discomfort during or after root canal therapy, which is often no more difficult than having a filling put in.

In summary, root canal therapy is a routine and successful procedure that can save a tooth that has been chipped or infected. Delaying the procedure, however, may have negative effects, such as infection, tooth loss, and higher costs. To prevent further harm and maintain the health of your teeth, it’s crucial to look for treatment as soon as you notice dental discomfort or sensitivity.

It’s crucial to keep in mind that a root canal is a common surgery that, when carried properly by a skilled endodontist, is typically painless and can save your original tooth. Saving your tooth and avoiding the need for a future, more intrusive, and expensive treatment require root canal therapy. Do not wait to make an appointment with your dentist or endodontist if you believe you may require a root canal.