Root canal therapy is the only way to save a badly damaged tooth from being extracted. During a root canal procedure, your tooth’s internal canals that extend into the tooth’s root are cleaned out.
Finding out if you need a root canal is similar to determining if you need a filling. In the early stages of a dental issue, it can be hard to tell if better oral hygiene will resolve the problem or if dental work is necessary. This is because a trained dentist is the only one who can recognize many of the signs.
The Most Common That Needs a Root Canal
Just because you have tooth pain does not necessarily mean you need a root canal. Only a professional can tell you if you need a root canal. However, you should be aware of the following symptoms. Some of the most typical signs of a root canal include:
Extreme Pain
Any pain in your mouth is uncomfortable and should be discussed with your dentist, but some pains could be symptoms of a root canal. You may require a root canal treatment if you experience sudden, wave-like pain caused by an infected or dead tooth. Are there any positions where your gums or teeth hurt the most? Do you feel pressure on your teeth and face when you lie down or bend down? This could be root canal pain.
It’s important to remember that tooth pain rarely goes away on its own, and you should see a dentist to address the underlying issue causing the pain.
Tooth Discoloration
If you have a pulp infection, your tooth may become discolored. Damage to the roots caused by a breakdown of the internal tissue or trauma to the tooth can cause your teeth to appear grayish or black. Although other factors can cause tooth discoloration, if your tooth changes color and darkens after being hit, you should see your dentist and consider them for dental emergencies.
Swollen Gums
If your gums are swollen, this could be a sign of an infected tooth. This is different from having inflamed gums after flossing or brushing too hard. Aside from looking swollen, your gums may feel tender to the touch and possibly even cause you some pain.
Sensitivity to Heat and Cold
You might need a root canal treatment if you experience tooth pain while drinking or eating something hot or cold. You may experience a burning sensation or a dull ache due to this sensitivity, which may linger for a while after you’ve stopped drinking or eating. Sensitivity to heat or cold could indicate that the nerves in your tooth are damaged or infected.
Chipped or Cracked Tooth
A chipped or cracked tooth indicates that a root canal is required. First, there could have been trauma to the tooth that caused the chip or crack, resulting in the inflamed or infected pulp. Second, the tooth may have died and cracked or chipped due to extensive decay or infection. You’ll most likely need a root canal to save the remaining tooth. On this page, you will learn more about root canals.
Conclusion
The best person to identify these warning signs is a professional. Your dentist will always carefully consider your options before undergoing such a risky procedure. However, root canals work by removing tissue that is no longer helpful, so if you get one, your quality of life will improve. Make an appointment immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.
