Once the pulp of a tooth has become infected, your choices are limited. Your could choose to:

W hat are your alternatives to root canal treatment? The problem with delaying treatment is that an infected tooth will never heal on its own, and this can lead to some very serious problems. As the infection spreads down the tooth and into your jawbone, the pain may become excruciating. It could even put you in the hospital and threaten your life.

Root canal treatment An extraction is only a short-term solution. While it does remove the source of infection, it may set off a chain reaction of shifting teeth and other dental problems. Changes in your bite can lead to cavities, periodontal disease, and possibly even more tooth loss.

When the pulp of the tooth has been infected, the only way to save your tooth and keep it in your mouth is to remove the infection with root canal treatment.