+ When does pulp infection and inflammation most likely occur?

Pulp infection and inflammation most often occur if you have a cracked or chipped tooth, a deep cavity or filling, or other serious injury to the tooth. All of these allow bacteria to enter the pulp and cause infection and inflammation.

+ What happens if I ignore the infection or inflammation?

The infection or inflammation in the pulp can spread to the tissues around the root of the tooth. This can cause pain and swelling, but even if there is no pain, bacteria from the infection can damage the bone that holds the tooth in you jaw.

Without a root canal, the infection and damage will continue and your tooth most likely will need to be removed.

+ Can I just remove the tooth?

Removing but not replacing a tooth can create problems. When a tooth is removed and not replaced, the teeth around it may shift. This can make it hard to bite, chew and clean your teeth. Areas in your mouth that are not cleaned well are more likely to have problems like decay or gum disease.

Root canal therapy can prevent these problems by saving your natural tooth. Also, root canal therapy is usually less expensive than a replacement tooth.

+ How long will the restored tooth last?

When properly restored and maintained, a tooth with a root canal filling can last for many years. But, like any other tooth, it can become decayed or fractured or the tissue around it can get gum disease. Professional cleanings and regular dental exams will help keep your mouth healthy — whether you’ve had root canal therapy or not.