When a toothache develops, many people try to ignore it, hoping that it will go away. Avoiding dental care, however, is detrimental. Infections in the tooth do not simply go away. Instead, they only get worse. When you have an infected tooth, you may develop an abscess. This is a small sac that forms at the root of the tooth. It contains harmful bacteria. However, an abscess can rupture, which then leaves the bacteria free to travel into your blood. As the bacteria travel through your bloodstream, your risk of serious health issues increases significantly. A root canal, however, eliminates the infection. If an abscess is present, this will also be treated. By treating the tooth, we can help to protect your overall health from serious issues.