Root canal therapy is the only solution to save an extremely 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.
Determining if you need a root canal is similar to figuring out if you need a filling. In the early stages of a dental problem, it can be hard to say if better dental hygiene will fix the issue or if a dental procedure is essential. This is because an experienced dentist is the only one who can recognize most of the symptoms.
The Most Common Issues That Need a Root Canal
Just because you have tooth pain does not necessarily suggest you need a root canal. Only a professional can tell you if you need a root canal. However, you should know the following symptoms. Some of the common symptoms of a root canal consist of the following:
Extreme Pain
Any pain in your mouth is uncomfortable and must be checked with your dentist, but some discomforts could be symptoms of a root canal. You may need a root canal procedure if you experience unexpected, wave-like pain triggered 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 or bend down? This could be root canal pain.
It’s important to remember that tooth pain hardly disappears on its own, and you must see a dentist to resolve 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 failure of the internal tissue or trauma to the tooth can cause your teeth to appear grayish or black. Although other things can trigger tooth discoloration, if your tooth changes color and darkens after being hit, you should consult your dentist and report it as a root canal emergency.
Swollen Gums
If your gums are inflamed, this could be a sign of an infected tooth. This is different from having swollen gums after flossing or brushing too hard. Other than looking swollen, your gums may feel tender to the touch and trigger pain.
Sensitivity to Cold And Heat
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 feeling or a dull pain due to this sensitiveness, which may remain for a while after you’ve stopped drinking or eating. Sensitivity to heat or cold might indicate that the nerves in your tooth are harmed or infected.
Broken or Fractured Tooth
A broken or cracked tooth signifies that a root canal is required. First, there could have been trauma to the tooth that caused the chip or crack, causing the swollen or infected pulp. Second, the tooth may have died, broken, or chipped because of extensive decay or infection. You’ll probably need a root canal to save the remaining tooth. Visit websites like EmergencyDentalClinics.ca to learn more about root canals.
Final Thoughts
The most reliable person to determine these warning signs is a dentist. Your dentist will always carefully consider your alternatives before going through such a risky procedure. However, root canals remove tissue that is no longer useful, so if you get one, your quality of life will improve. Make a consultation immediately if you see any of these signs.
