How Long Can You Go Without Getting A Root Canal?

It's not uncommon for patients to put off getting a root canal. Root canals often carry a reputation for being painful, but in reality, the procedure is typically not as daunting as perceived. Thanks to local anesthesia, discomfort during the procedure is minimal. Other people may put off getting a root canal due to expense, as they may not realize that most dental insurance policies cover this procedure.

Why Delaying a Root Canal is a Risky Decision

Delaying a root canal procedure can result in many different complications, some of which might have serious consequences for your overall health.

• Systemic Inflammation: When an infected tooth is left untreated, inflammation can spread beyond the affected area and throughout the mouth and the entire body. Systemic inflammation increases the risk of developing heart problems and even having a stroke.
• Pressure and Swelling: As the infection spreads, it can cause increased pain and pressure in the face, neck, and head. Depending on the location of the infection, this pressure and swelling can show up in various areas, causing severe discomfort.
• Abscess Formation: If an infection progresses without treatment, an abscess may form—a pocket of pus at the tip of the tooth's root. An abscessed tooth requires emergency dental care to remove the infection and alleviate pain.
• Drainage Issues: In severe cases, the overwhelming amount of harmful bacteria can create an opening on the side of the tooth, allowing the infection to drain into surrounding tissues such as the gums, cheeks, or skin. If the infection enters the bloodstream, it can lead to a life-threatening condition known as sepsis.
• Tooth and Bone Loss: Long-term infection and inflammation can result in bone loss around the affected tooth's root. This severe decay compromises the tooth's structural integrity, eventually leading to tooth loss.

Putting off a necessary and recommended root canal treatment drags out your discomfort but also puts your overall health at risk. It's essential to address dental issues promptly to prevent more complications and ensure optimal oral and overall physical health. If you're experiencing symptoms of an infected tooth, don't hesitate to seek professional dental care to discuss your treatment options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals

How Long Does It Take to Feel Normal Again After A Root Canal?

After a root canal, most individuals experience mild discomfort or tenderness during the healing process. Taking an anti-inflammatory pain reliever like ibuprofen usually helps. Sometimes a patient also needs a crown or other form of restoration and may still be sore until this portion of the procedure is complete and healing is almost finished. For some patients it can take just a couple days and for others it may take a few weeks to feel normal again.

Why Do People Need Root Canals?

If someone needs a root canal, their affected tooth is severely damaged, likely by one or more of the following factors:

• Severe tooth decay and cavities that are deep into the inner layers of the tooth
• Infection and inflammation that has reached the nerves within the tooth's pulp
• The tooth is cracked, deeply fractured, or broken

Florida Dental Implant Center

At Florida Dental Implant Center, we know that getting a root canal likely isn't on your list of favorite things to do. However, we know its importance for your dental and overall health. We will do everything in our power to make this procedure as painless and as comfortable as possible for you.Contact us at 941-484-3885 to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.