Can a Root Canal Save a Severely Infected Tooth? Here's What You Should Know

A severely infected tooth can be a source of intense discomfort, leading many to wonder whether it is possible to save the tooth or if extraction is the only option. Fortunately, in many cases, a root canal treatment (RCT) can save a tooth that has become infected or decayed. Root canal therapy is a highly effective procedure that removes infection from the inside of a tooth, allowing the tooth to remain in the mouth rather than being extracted. If you’re facing the possibility of a root canal due to an infected tooth, understanding the procedure and how it can save your tooth is crucial for making an informed decision about your dental health.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure designed to treat a tooth that is severely infected or decayed. The treatment involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the inside of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and then sealing the tooth to prevent further infection. Once the root canal is complete, the tooth is usually restored with a crown or filling to provide strength and function.

The pulp is the innermost part of the tooth, containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or damaged—often as a result of deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures—the infection can spread to the surrounding bone and cause severe pain or even an abscess. If left untreated, the infection may cause the tooth to fail, leading to the need for extraction.

How Can a Root Canal Save a Severely Infected Tooth?

A root canal is the most effective way to save a severely infected tooth. When an infection reaches the pulp, it can cause significant pain, swelling, and, in some cases, the formation of an abscess. At this stage, the only alternatives to root canal therapy are extraction or potentially leaving the infection untreated, which can lead to more severe complications like systemic infection.

Root canal therapy works by removing the infected pulp and cleaning out the infected canals, thereby eliminating the source of infection. By doing this, the tooth is effectively "preserved" in the mouth, saving it from the need for extraction. Once the pulp is removed and the canal is cleaned and sealed, the infection is eradicated, and the tooth can continue to function normally. In some cases, the tooth will be restored with a crown or filling to protect it from further damage and to restore its strength and function.

The Procedure: What to Expect

If your dentist determines that you need a root canal due to a severely infected tooth, they will walk you through the process and ensure you’re comfortable every step of the way. The root canal procedure typically involves the following steps:

Diagnosis and X-rays: Your dentist will take X-rays to assess the extent of the infection and determine whether a root canal is necessary. This helps them to identify how far the infection has spread and whether the tooth is salvageable.
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the infected tooth. This ensures that the procedure is pain-free, and that you will remain comfortable throughout the process.
Accessing the Pulp: The dentist will create a small opening in the crown (top) of the tooth to access the infected pulp inside the root canals.
Cleaning and Disinfecting: The dentist will carefully remove the infected or damaged pulp and clean out the canals to eliminate any remaining bacteria. This step is crucial in preventing reinfection and ensuring that the tooth remains free of infection after the procedure.
Sealing the Tooth: After cleaning the canals, the dentist will fill the empty spaces with a material called gutta-percha, which seals the tooth and prevents further infection. This is followed by placing a temporary or permanent filling to close the opening made in the tooth.
Restoration: After the root canal, your dentist may recommend placing a crown or filling to restore the tooth’s strength and function. The crown will help protect the tooth from damage and prevent it from fracturing under the pressure of chewing and biting.

Benefits of Saving an Infected Tooth with a Root Canal

Preserves Natural Teeth: The most significant benefit of root canal therapy is that it allows you to keep your natural tooth. Saving a natural tooth provides better function and aesthetics than opting for extraction and replacement with a dental implant or bridge. A natural tooth helps maintain the integrity of your bite and the surrounding teeth.
Prevents Further Infection: Root canal therapy effectively eliminates the source of infection, preventing the infection from spreading to other parts of the body or affecting the jawbone. By saving the tooth, the risk of a systemic infection is significantly reduced.
Relieves Pain and Discomfort: One of the most common symptoms of an infected tooth is severe pain. Root canal therapy removes the infected tissue inside the tooth, which alleviates pain and restores normal function. Many people find that they experience immediate relief from the pain once the procedure is complete.
Maintains Oral Health: Preserving a natural tooth is crucial for your overall oral health. When a tooth is extracted, it can cause neighboring teeth to shift, affecting your bite and potentially leading to further dental problems. A root canal treatment helps maintain the alignment of your teeth and prevents complications such as bite misalignment or bone loss.
Cost-Effective Solution: While root canal therapy may seem like an expensive treatment, it is often more cost-effective than tooth extraction and replacement with a dental implant. Implants and bridges require additional procedures, such as bone grafting and placement of the implant, which can add up in cost and recovery time. Root canal therapy, on the other hand, is usually less expensive and can help you avoid the need for these more invasive treatments.

When is a Root Canal Not the Best Option?

While root canals are highly effective for saving infected teeth, there are some situations where a root canal may not be the best option. If the infection has spread too far into the surrounding bone or if the tooth is so structurally damaged that it cannot be restored, your dentist may recommend tooth extraction instead.

In some cases, if the tooth is severely cracked, the infection cannot be fully treated with a root canal, and extraction may be necessary. However, most infected teeth can be saved with root canal therapy, provided the infection has not reached an irreversible stage.

Aftercare and Recovery

After undergoing a root canal, it’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to ensure the success of the treatment and the preservation of your tooth. While most people experience little to no discomfort after the procedure, some tenderness or mild pain is normal. Your dentist may prescribe pain relievers or recommend over-the-counter medications to manage any discomfort.

It’s essential to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it has been fully restored with a crown or filling. The tooth may be fragile after the procedure and could be at risk of cracking or breaking without proper restoration.

Conclusion

Root canal therapy is a highly effective and reliable way to save a severely infected tooth. By removing the infection and preserving the natural tooth, root canal treatment not only alleviates pain and discomfort but also helps prevent further complications and preserves your long-term oral health. If you’re facing a severely infected tooth, consult your dentist to determine whether a root canal is the right solution for you. With modern techniques and advancements in dental care, root canals are now more comfortable and successful than ever before.