1994 Volvo 940 rack and pinion replacement

I have a 1994 940 volvo turbo that the mechanic said the rack is bent. I just had the tie rod replaced as it was bent and the car aligned. Now turning to the right has a less turning radius than turning to the right. The car ran over a cement pipe earlier in the week. I assume that is how it was bent. My question is how quickly do I need to replace the rack and how does it affect the stability of the car?