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Hearing that you need a root canal is never fun, but ignoring the problem won’t make it go away. A root canal is typically recommended when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed, often due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma. Without treatment, that infection can spread and lead to far more serious oral and overall health issues. For patients in and around Coatsville, understanding the risks of avoiding a root canal can help you make a more informed decision about your care.
The Infection Doesn’t Heal on Its Own
Once the pulp of a tooth becomes infected, the body cannot eliminate the infection without dental intervention. The pulp is sealed inside the tooth, which means antibiotics alone are usually ineffective. Instead of healing, the infection continues to grow, damaging the surrounding tissue and bone.
As bacteria multiply, pressure builds within the tooth, often causing persistent or worsening pain. Even if the pain temporarily subsides, the infection is still present and actively spreading beneath the surface.
Increased Pain and Sensitivity Over Time
In the early stages, an infected tooth may only cause mild sensitivity to hot or cold foods. Over time, that sensitivity can turn into sharp pain, throbbing discomfort, or pain when biting and chewing. Many people assume that pain going away means the problem has resolved, but this can actually indicate that the nerve has died.
At this point, the infection may be spreading beyond the tooth, making treatment more complex and uncomfortable than if it had been addressed earlier.
Risk of Abscess Formation
One of the most serious consequences of skipping a root canal is the formation of a dental abscess. An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms when the infection spreads to the tip of the tooth’s root or surrounding bone. This can lead to swelling in the gums, face, or jaw, along with fever and a general feeling of illness.
Left untreated, an abscess can cause bone loss around the tooth and may even allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, posing risks to overall health.
Tooth Loss Becomes More Likely
When a root canal is avoided for too long, saving the tooth may no longer be possible. Severe infection can weaken the tooth structure and supporting bone, making extraction the only viable option. Losing a tooth doesn’t just affect your smile — it can also lead to shifting teeth, bite problems, and difficulty chewing.
Replacing a missing tooth often requires more extensive and costly treatments than preserving the natural tooth with a root canal.
Potential Impact on Overall Health
In rare but serious cases, untreated dental infections can spread beyond the mouth. Bacteria may travel to other parts of the body, increasing the risk of systemic infections. While this outcome isn’t common, it highlights why dental infections should never be ignored.
Addressing the issue early helps protect both your oral health and your overall well-being.
Getting timely treatment can mean the difference between saving your tooth and facing far more serious complications down the road.
About the Practice
Chester County Dental Arts provides comprehensive dental care with a focus on patient comfort and long-term oral health. Our experienced doctors offer advanced diagnostic tools and restorative treatments, including root canal therapy, to help patients preserve their natural teeth whenever possible. The team is committed to educating patients, easing dental anxiety, and delivering personalized care for healthier smiles.
Call us at (610) 383-1600 or request an appointment online.
