Why You May Need A Root Canal and The Possible Consequences Of Putting It Off

Root canal procedures offered in Devonshire, Bermuda, by our doctors at Positive Image Dental can become necessary when the inner area of the tooth (called the pulp) becomes damaged or infected. The pulp inside a tooth is the soft tissue made of blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissues. When the pulp is infected, it can lead to severe pain, infection, and tooth loss when left untreated. You may find yourself in a situation where the symptoms of needing a root canal are present, but you don’t recognize them.

The question you may be asking yourself is, why do you need a root canal? Here’s why you might need a root canal and the potential consequences of not getting one:

1. Severe Tooth Pain: One of the primary reasons for needing a root canal is experiencing severe tooth pain, especially when biting down or applying pressure to the tooth. This pain typically indicates that the nerve and pulp inside the tooth have become inflamed or are infected due to advanced decay, a crack in the tooth, or other physical trauma.
2. Pulp Infection or Inflammation: If the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it cannot heal independently. Bacteria can penetrate the pulp through deep cavities, fractures, or dental procedures, leading to infection and tissue breakdown. The infection can spread to the surrounding tissues without intervention, causing abscess formation and bone loss.
3. Swelling and Abscess: Untreated pulp infection can lead to the formation of a dental abscess, a pus-filled pocket at the root of the tooth. Abscesses are accompanied by swelling, tenderness, and sometimes drainage of pus. Left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone and soft tissues, leading to more extensive damage and potential systemic complications.
4. Tooth Discoloration: Discoloration of the affected tooth may occur due to pulp necrosis (death) or haemorrhage within the pulp chamber. The tooth may darken or develop a greyish hue, indicating irreversible damage to the internal structures.
5. Progression of Decay: If decay or infection is left untreated, it can continue progressing, affecting neighbouring teeth and increasing the risk of further dental problems. Untreated infection can lead to the loss of the tooth’s structural integrity, necessitating extraction and replacement with a dental implant or bridge.
6. Chronic Pain and Discomfort: Untreated tooth infections can cause chronic pain, discomfort, and difficulty chewing or speaking. The infection can also affect neighbouring teeth and oral structures, leading to widespread discomfort and compromised oral function.

Schedule An Appointment Today!

If you think you may need a root canal, it is very important that you do not wait. To schedule an appointment at Positive Image Dental in Devonshire, BM, please call (441) 292-2312.