Postponing That Root Canal? 3 Reasons Why You Shouldn't

If you've got a toothache, and the dentist has recommended a root canal, don't delay the procedure. Waiting for the pain to go away on it's own is only going to make matters worse—possibly much worse. Once a toothache turns into a situation that requires a root canal, significant damage has already been done to the tooth. If you're still saying no to the root canal, here are three reasons why you need to change your mind.

Stops the Infection in Its Tracks

If you're enduring toothache pain, chances are good that you have a raging infection. Prolonging the root canal will only give the infection time to get worse. In fact, if you delay the root canal, the infection could spread to adjoining teeth and throughout your mouth. However, when you have your root canal performed, the infection will be removed from your tooth so that your entire mouth can heal properly. The infection will be stopped in its tracks.

Prevents Further Decay

While you're delaying your root canal, your tooth is getting worse, which means the decay is getting worse, too. Once the decay becomes too severe, your dentist will have no choice but to remove the tooth. Unfortunately, once the tooth is gone, the rest of your teeth will begin to pay the price, and so will you. Premature tooth loss of even just one tooth can have devastating effects on your mouth. First, once the tooth is gone, the remaining teeth will begin shifting positions to fill in the space. Second, as soon as the tooth is removed, the jaw bone in that area begins to break down, and you begin suffering from bone loss. That loss of bone will undermine the stability of the rest of your teeth, which could lead to the loss of other teeth.

Protects Your Health

If you have teeth that are decaying, you're looking at potential health risks. The infection that's raging in your teeth and gums can spread to other areas of your body, including your blood stream and your heart. Serious tooth decay that's left untreated can lead to strokes and heart attacks. It can also lead to complications associated with diabetes.

If your dentist has recommended a root canal, schedule the procedure. Waiting for your dental care could lead to more serious problems. Once you have your root canal, talk to your dentist about ways to keep your teeth healthy and prevent the need for future root canals.

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