Yes, it is very important to treat an infected tooth as soon as possible. If left untreated, the infection can spread beyond the tooth to surrounding areas such as the face, neck, or head, potentially causing serious health complications.
Infections can also lead to bone loss around the affected tooth and may cause severe pain and swelling. Early treatment helps prevent these issues and can save the tooth in many cases.
While root canal treatment often has a reputation for being painful, most patients find it no more uncomfortable than having a regular filling. Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area, ensuring that you feel little to no pain during the procedure.
Any discomfort you might experience afterward is usually mild and temporary, and your dental team will provide advice on managing it effectively.
Root canal treatment is usually needed when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed. Common causes include:
Deep tooth decay reaching the pulp
Repeated dental work on the same tooth
Large or damaged fillings
Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can help prevent the need for root canal treatment by catching problems early.
