Need a Root Canal? 3 Reasons to Schedule Your Treatment ASAP

Most cavities can be treated with a dental filling, but if the infection extends to the pulp of your tooth (the soft, squishy center), you may need a root canal to stop the spread and prevent symptoms from worsening.

If you’ve been told you need a root canal, you may want to put it off, because of anxiety or cost, but this can actually make things worse. 

At Family Dental Group in Gardner, Northborough, and Paxton, Massachusetts, our team led by Nikhil Lavana, DMD, and Archana Kharkanis-Lavana, DMD, specializes in root canal treatment. Read on to discover why prompt action is necessary and how to schedule your root canal today.

Reason 1: Delaying may worsen the infection

We never recommend root canals lightly. However, this approach is sometimes necessary when you have a deep cavity. Waiting too long to have the infection treated lets bacteria multiply, which can cause the infection to spread to your other teeth or jawbone. In severe cases, the infection can lead to an abscess and require an extraction. 

Early treatment prevents this damage from occurring, preserving your smile, oral health, and affected tooth.

Reason 2: Relief from pain and sensitivity

Many people with deep cavities experience tooth pain and extreme sensitivity to hot and cold. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication can help combat some of this discomfort, but the pain and sensitivity typically don’t improve on their own.

Root canal therapy removes the infected pulp causing your discomfort. Once the infected tissue is removed, your body can begin healing. In fact, many people report significant pain relief within 24-48 hours of treatment.

Reason 3: You could avoid more expensive dental work later on

Putting off a root canal increases the risk of complications, such as abscesses and infection in the jawbone. Often, tooth extraction may be the only way to address these issues. Replacing a tooth with a bridge or dental implant is invasive and more costly than saving it. Acting now can protect your natural smile and keep treatment affordable. 

Reason 4: Prevent tooth loss and maintain your smile

When the issues requiring a root canal are left alone, they can damage your tooth so severely that there’s no way to save it. Losing a single tooth may not seem like a big deal, but it can affect your bite, chewing ability, and even your speech. Additionally, it may cause the surrounding teeth to change position, which might require orthodontics or restorative dental work. By treating the issue early, you safeguard your smile and minimize future dental work.

Schedule your root canal today

Nobody wants a root canal, but sometimes it’s the only way to preserve your smile and oral health. 

To schedule root canal therapy today, call our nearest office or book your appointment online.