Can Root Canal Infection Spread? Risks and Treatment Explained

If your dentist has told you that you need a root canal to treat a root canal infection, it can be scary. Understanding the process and what the treatment will entail can arm you with the knowledge you need to get your dental health back on track and prevent further issues later in life. Yes, an untreated dental infection can spread to your jaw, surrounding tissues, and other parts of the body. Because a dental abscess will not resolve on its own, prompt professional treatment is essential to protect your health and save your natural tooth. Professionals across the world trust Colgate to find resources, products, and information to give your patients a healthier future.

Why Do People Need Root Canals?

You might need root canal treatment if an infection develops in the nerve and blood chamber within the core of your tooth, known as the dental pulp. This space can become infected due to deep cavities, a cracked tooth, or periodontal disease. When bacteria infect this area, the pulp may die, leading to a periapical abscess—a pocket of pus that forms at the tip of the tooth root. The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) emphasizes that more than 15 million root canals are performed annually in the U.S. to preserve natural teeth by cleaning out the tooth infection.

Symptoms of a Dental Abscess

If you experience any of the following, see your dentist immediately. Note: Difficulty breathing or swallowing is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention at an urgent care facility or emergency room.

• Throbbing or aching
• Sensitivity
• Fever
• Swelling
• A bad taste or smell in the mouth
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

The Root Canal Procedure

According to the AAE, your dental professional will perform what are the steps for a root canal to treat the infection:

• Examine the affected area
• Numb the area
• Cover the tooth area with a barrier dam to protect the mouth
• Drill through the enamel and dentin layers of the tooth to the space where the blood and nerve supply can be accessed
• Clean the area where the blood and nerve supply has died or become infected
• Dry and fill the empty space where the blood and nerves once lived
• Place a temporary filling to allow for healing
• Restore the tooth with a permanent crown, typically at a later visit

Preventing Dental Infections

Routine dental care and effective daily oral hygiene are your best defenses. If an infection is detected, prompt treatment is necessary to prevent it from spreading to the jaw and surrounding tissues. Patients with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk for systemic complications, making early intervention critical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a dental abscess go away without treatment?

No. A dental abscess will not heal on its own. It requires professional intervention to remove the bacteria and prevent the infection from spreading to the jawbone or soft tissues.

How does a root canal prevent infection spread?

By removing the infected pulp and sealing the tooth, the procedure eliminates the bacterial reservoir, allowing the surrounding tissues to heal and preventing the infection from migrating to adjacent structures.

What should I do if I suspect an infection?

If you notice symptoms like swelling, fever, or severe pain, contact your dentist immediately for an evaluation. Prompt treatment is the most effective way to maintain your oral health and avoid tooth extraction.