Making an extra appointment to see the dentist in Richmond, VA can be a hassle, especially if you have a busy schedule. Still, if you have regular tooth pain, swelling, or tenderness in the jaw and gums, it’s better to get it checked out than to wait. When it comes to symptoms that might lead to a root canal, acting earlier means minimizing the discomfort and taking care of the problem before it exacerbates.
Tooth Decay and Infection
When tooth decay reaches the root of the tooth and bacteria begin to feed on the blood supply and core of the tooth, several things happen, all of which are prone to worsening over time.
• Bacteria can enter the blood and spread the infection throughout the body
• The infection gets a richer source of nourishment and spreads faster
• Frequently, this presents an opportunity to move into the gums or other teeth
Acting quickly when you have tooth pain, swelling, or other signs of dental distress means having a chance to consult with a professional about whether the pain is related to tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma you might not have noticed right away. Sometimes, it’s not indicative of anything serious, but you will never know if you need a root canal if you don’t get checked out by the dentist.
Make an Appointment Today
The longer you wait to get your symptoms checked out, the more chances the underlying condition has to spread and complicate. In the case of the kinds of infections that lead to tooth decay, gum disease, or other serious oral health issues, this can mean opening up the rest of your body to opportunistic secondary infections. Your dental health is not just a matter of holding on to a beautiful smile—it’s an integral part of your entire health care plan. Contact our office today to talk to Dr. Steadman about your symptoms if you have regular or worsening dental pain.
