What Happens If You Don’t Complete The Root Canal That You Started?

A root canal is one of the most common dental treatment people go through, and it’s generally considered a safe procedure. However, there are some rare cases where patients fail to complete the treatment, and this can lead to serious problems. In this article, we’ll explore some of the potential consequences of not completing a root canal.

1. Infection

The tooth can become infected if you don’t complete the root canal that you started. Infection can lead to tooth loss, and in some cases, it can even be life-threatening. Therefore, it is important to make sure that you complete your root canal treatment to avoid such.
Also, while the treatment is ongoing, keep the area clean to protect it from infection. This includes cleaning the inside of your mouth and the surrounding area where the tooth is located. If plaque or bacteria build up on your teeth, it will be easier for them to spread to the root canal site.

2. Bone Loss

You may also experience bone loss due to an incomplete root canal procedure. This can happen because the process exposes the nerves and surrounding bone. The exposed bone cells may then start to break down, which could lead to a decrease in bone density. An additional procedure may be necessary to restore the bone structure.

3. Nerve Damage

The nerve may also be injured. This can cause severe pain in the tooth and other parts of your body. In some cases, nerve damage may lead to limited or no movement in the tooth or its surrounding muscles. If left untreated, nerve damage can result in permanent damage to the tooth and even the inability to speak or eat properly.
In severe cases, it can lead to numbness in the arm or hand, impaired movement, and even a stroke.

4. Loss of Tooth Structure

If you have not completed the root canal that you started, your dentist may need to remove more of your tooth than they would if you had completed the treatment. This is because some of the dental pulp (the inner part of the tooth) may have been lost due to a lack of care.

Bottom Line

The most common reason people fail to complete root canal procedures is fear of pain. It is important to remember that while some discomfort may be experienced during a root canal, it typically only lasts a few minutes per session. If you experience significant pain, you can talk to your dentist about using anesthesia.
If you suspect your tooth might have been infected or severely decayed and would need a root canal, visit us at Springvale Dental Clinic. Our team of experienced staff will help you restore your oral health and maintain the aesthetic of your teeth.