Don’t Wait Too Long: Signs You Shouldn’t Postpone Your Root Canal Any Longer

If your dentist has recommended a root canal, you might think you can postpone the procedure. That's not the case though. A root canal can help you save your tooth. It can also prevent damage to the surrounding teeth. This is especially true if you're dealing with gum disease. If you're postponing treatment, you're not alone. A lot of people postpone their root canal procedures. Unfortunately, waiting too long can lead to serious dental problems. In fact, if you wait too long, you could lose the tooth altogether. Read the list provided below. If you're dealing with any of the issues described below, it's time to stop postponing your root canal. 

You Taste Something Bitter

If you've been postponing your root canal, run your tongue along the inside of your mouth. If you taste something bitter, there's a good chance you've waited too long for your root canal. The bitter taste could be pus coming from your gums. This is a sign that the cavity has turned into a dental infection. The best way to clear the infection is to get the root canal done right away. 

You’ve Gotten an Abscess

If you still haven't scheduled your root canal, take a look at your tooth. If you see a lump on the gums, you've developed an abscess. An abscess is another sign that your tooth is infected. Unfortunately, dental abscesses can pose health risks for you. If the abscess ruptures, it could spread the infection through your bloodstream.  Schedule your root canal before the abscess ruptures. 

Your Pain Has Increased

If you've gone from mild discomfort to raging toothache pain, you need to get your root canal done right away. The increased pain is a sure sign that the decay inside your tooth is getting worse. It's also an indication that the nerve is involved now. Unfortunately, the pain won't get any better until you get the root canal done. Talk to your dentist about scheduling the root canal as soon as you can. 

You See a Discharge

If you think you can wait longer for your root canal, look at your gums. If you can see a green or yellow discharge coming up from the gums, don't postpone your root canal any longer. This discharge is a sign that the infection has spread. If you wait too much longer, you could put the rest of your teeth in danger. You could also put your health in danger. A root canal will clear up the infection. Talk to a dentist to you have any of these symptoms.