Tooth pain, regardless of its level, is a discomfort nobody enjoys. Unfortunately, ignored pain may imply that you need a root canal procedure. Endodontic therapy, widely known as a root canal, is a dental treatment that removes the infected, injured, or dead pulp from a tooth. To avoid further complications and preserve your teeth, it’s crucial to acknowledge the signs of requiring this procedure. Here are five signs indicating that you might need a root canal:
1. Severe Toothache: You have likely experienced a toothache at some point in your life. Still, if the pain intensifies while eating or when you apply pressure to that area, it’s time to consult a dentist. An intense toothache is the most common symptom indicating that the condition of your tooth has worsened and may require a root canal.
2. Prolonged Sensitivity to Heat and Cold: Many people have sensitive teeth. However, if you’re experiencing prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold beverages and foods – even after the heat or cold stimulus is removed – it may signal that the nerves and blood vessels in your tooth have been severely damaged or are diseased. The prolonged sensitivity could mean you need a root canal to remove the infected pulp tissue.
3. Darkening or Discoloration of the Tooth: Your tooth becoming discolored is anything but normal. A darkened or discolored tooth often signifies that changes are occurring within your tooth’s nerve space, indicating that the tooth’s nerve may be dead or severely infected. In this case, the dentist might recommend a root canal to prevent infection from spreading further.
4. Swelling in the Nearby Gums: Swelling of the gums is another sign that something is wrong with a specific tooth. If you happen to notice swelling or tenderness in the gums near the painful tooth, it’s possibly due to the spread of infection from the root of the tooth. A root canal procedure would be necessary to eliminate this infection.
5. A Small, Pimple-Like Bump on Your Gums: If a small pimple, also known as root canal treatment a dental abscess, appears on your gums near a painful tooth, don’t ignore it – this may be the result of a deep-seated infection. Root canal therapy is a common way to clear up this type of infection and heal the abscess.
Remember, the need for a root canal isn’t always accompanied by evident symptoms, and you could be a candidate for the procedure even when you believe your tooth to be in perfect health. Regular visits to your dentist will ensure issues are detected early before they necessitate more complex treatments. If you observe any of the above signs, it’s high time to schedule an appointment with your dentist to have the problem diagnosed and treated appropriately. Don’t put off looking after your oral health – it’s a vital part of your overall well-being.