First, when your dentist recommends a root canal, it usually means the inside of your tooth has become infected or badly inflamed. You may feel tempted to wait if the pain is manageable. However, delaying an indicated root canal can allow the problem to grow. An untreated infection can cause more pain, an abscess, bone loss, and even tooth loss.

Why should you not wait for a root canal?

Absences of dental pain does not always mean the infection is getting better. In some cases, pain can decrease when the nerve inside the tooth dies. The infection, however, can continue. You may still have bacteria inside the tooth even when you feel fine. That is why a dentist should evaluate symptoms such as lingering sensitivity, pain when biting, swollen gums, or a small pimple on the gums.

Also, delaying root canal treatment can increase the chance of developing a dental abscess. An abscess is a pocket of infection that can form around the tooth root. It may cause swelling, pressure, bad taste, or severe tooth pain. In more serious cases, the infection can spread into nearby tissues.

Moreover, waiting too long may make it harder to save the natural tooth. As the infection progresses, it can damage the surrounding bone and weaken the tooth. Eventually, the tooth may no longer be a good candidate for root canal treatment and extraction may become necessary.

Delaying treatment can lead to more dental work

Losing a tooth can create a bigger treatment plan. If extraction becomes necessary, you may later need a dental implant, dental bridge, or another tooth replacement option. That can mean additional appointments, healing time, and expenses. Treating an infected tooth when it is still possible to save it may help you avoid these extra steps.

In addition, antibiotics alone usually do not remove the source of a tooth infection. You still need proper dental treatment to address the infected tooth. Depending on your condition, your dentist may recommend a root canal or another treatment.

Root Canal treatment in Tijuana

Finally, if you have been told that you need a root canal, consider scheduling your evaluation instead of waiting for the pain to become severe. At Advanced Smiles Dentistry in Tijuana, our dental team can evaluate your tooth and explain your treatment options based on your specific needs. We provide personalized dental care for patients looking for a dentist in Tijuana, root canal treatment in Tijuana, or a dental clinic near the San Diego border.