What Can Happen if You Avoid a Root Canal Treatment?

A root canal treatment is an important dental procedure used to save a tooth that is badly infected or damaged. Some people feel scared or try to avoid this treatment, but not getting a root canal when it’s needed can lead to bigger problems. Let’s explore why root canals are necessary from an endodontist near you, what can happen if you avoid them, and how to care for your teeth to prevent needing one.

Why is a Root Canal Important?

A root canal is required when the soft pulp tissue within your tooth gets infected. It may occur as a result of deep cavities, cracks, or injuries. This infection can lead to significant pain and swelling, and it may spread into other parts of your body if not treated. The dentist cleans out the infected pulp, seals the tooth, and often places a crown to shield it during a root canal.

What Happens if You Avoid a Root Canal?

Avoiding a root canal may seem easier at first, but it can lead to:

• Increased Pain and Swelling: The infection in the tooth does not clear up on its own. Rather, it can increase pain, and swelling may move to your face or neck.
• Tooth Loss: If the infection worsens, the tooth may have to be extracted. The patient would lose a tooth that affects eating, speaking, and smiling.
• Bone Damage: The infection may damage the bone surrounding the tooth, making it more difficult to replace the tooth later with a dental implant or bridge.
• Spread of Infection: Infections in your mouth can travel to other parts of your body, causing serious health problems.

How Long Will Antibiotics Delay a Root Canal?

Some people may think antibiotics can cure the infection, but that’s not true. Antibiotics can reduce swelling and pain for a short time, but they can’t remove the infected pulp inside the tooth. Waiting too long after taking antibiotics can make the infection worse, and the tooth may become harder to save.

How to Avoid Root Canal?

The best way to avoid needing a root canal is to take good care of your teeth. Here are some tips:

• Brush and Floss Daily: This helps remove plaque and keeps your teeth healthy.
• Visit the Dentist Regularly: Routine checkups can catch cavities early before they cause serious damage.
• Eat a Healthy Diet: Avoid consuming too much sugar, which can lead to cavities.
• Wear a Mouthguard: If you play sports, a mouthguard can protect your teeth from injuries.

When Should You See a Dentist?

If you have tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, or swelling in your gums, it’s time to see a dentist. These could be signs of an infection requiring a root canal in Vancouver. Ignoring these signs can make things worse.

Final Thoughts

A root canal may sound scary, but it’s a safe and common treatment that can save your tooth and stop pain. It also helps preserve your natural smile and prevents the need for more complicated dental procedures. Avoiding it can lead to serious dental and health problems. Remember to take care of your teeth every day and visit your dentist regularly to prevent infections.

Save Your Smile with Root Canal Therapy at Lighthouse Dental!

At Lighthouse Dental, we focus on keeping your teeth healthy and your smile bright. Our team of experienced dentist in Vancouver offers gentle and effective root canal therapy to save infected or damaged teeth. We use advanced tools and personalized care to make your visit comfortable and stress-free.

Don’t wait until the pain gets worse. Call Lighthouse Dental today and let us help you protect your smile!