If you have an infected pulp but opt not to have a root canal treatment, you risk having to take the tooth out entirely and more seriously, the infection spreading. This may result in several tooth extractions and infection of your gums. Apart from becoming very expensive to treat at this stage as a dental implant or bridge may be required, the health risks of having an infected tooth in your mouth for longer than necessary are serious. It is therefore recommended that you seek help as soon as you experience the problem.