Dangers if Ignoring a root canal infection

An infected root canal is a serious dental condition that can pose significant dangers if not treated promptly. The root canal system, which houses the tooth’s pulp (nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue), can become infected when bacteria invade due to deep decay, cracks, trauma, or a failed previous dental procedure. Once infected, the bacteria can proliferate inside the tooth and surrounding tissues, leading to several dangerous outcomes:

First, an untreated root canal infection can cause an abscess, which is a pocket of pus that forms at the tip of the tooth’s root. This abscess creates intense pressure and throbbing pain as it swells, and can spread infection to the jawbone, adjacent teeth, and even into the bloodstream. Once bacteria enter the bloodstream — a condition known as bacteremia — it can escalate into sepsis, a life-threatening systemic infection that requires emergency medical intervention.

Secondly, an infected root canal can lead to bone loss around the tooth root. The infection can destroy the surrounding bone structure, weakening the tooth’s support system. This can cause the tooth to become loose and eventually fall out if not treated. Bone loss may also complicate future dental procedures, such as implants, making reconstruction more difficult and costly.

Additionally, infection in the root canal can spread to nearby vital structures. In the upper jaw, infections may reach the sinuses, causing a sinus infection (sinusitis of dental origin). In severe cases, infections in the lower jaw can spread to the neck, compromising airways and leading to life-threatening swelling known as Ludwig’s angina.

From a broader health perspective, chronic dental infections have been associated with increased risks of systemic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes complications. Ongoing inflammation caused by a persistent infection can strain the immune system and contribute to overall health decline.

Because of these dangers, seeking care immediately for an infected root canal is critical. Prompt treatment typically involves either root canal therapy (cleaning out the infection and sealing the tooth) or, in more severe cases, tooth extraction followed by appropriate antibiotic therapy. Early intervention helps contain the infection, preserve the natural tooth whenever possible, and protect your overall health.

If you experience symptoms such as severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling in the face or gums, bad taste in the mouth, or fever, you should contact a dentist or endodontist immediately. Delaying treatment not only increases pain and complications but also raises the risk of needing more extensive, invasive, and costly medical and dental care later.