A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures to save a damaged or infected tooth. Many wonder “How do I know if I need a root canal”. The truth is, only a dentist can confirm whether a patient needs the treatment. However, there are several symptoms that may indicate a problem that needs root canal therapy. These should not be ignored because the condition may lead to more severe problems.
1. Continuous Tooth Pain
If you find that you are experiencing persistent pain in a specific tooth, whether while eating or drinking, it might indicate an infection or deep decay. The pain may also start from this tooth and be transmitted down to your jaw or other teeth, which makes it hard to locate the source of pain.
2. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
Does sharp or throbbing pain occur in response to the hot coffee or ice cream you consume? Increased sensitivity to changes in temperature is a sign that the pulp within the tooth has been damaged or infected. Root canal therapy is likely if pain does not improve within a reasonable period of time.
3. Swollen or Tender Gums
Swelling around a tooth may indicate an infection that exists inside. Your gums are probably sore, red, or include a small bump sometimes called a dental abscess. That could indicate the infection is spreading and needs to be treated right away.
4. Darkening or Discoloration of the Tooth
A grey-appearing tooth may have a dying nerve inside. It is caused by trauma or decay and, usually is one of the hallmark symptoms of root canal infection. As this disease develops, damage increases and can spread to neighboring teeth if left to progress.
5. Pain When Biting or Touching the Tooth
If the application of pressure to a tooth while chewing or even lightly touching it causes you discomfort, this could be due to nerve damage or an infection deep within the tooth. The kind of pain that often develops suggests that the infection has already reached the roots and requires prompt treatment.
6. A pimple-like bump on the gums
A bump or boil on the gum near a hurting tooth is actually an abscess, which refers to a type of serious infection in the oral cavity. In some cases, this bump emits pus and also causes bad breath or a stench in the mouth. Untreated, infection can spread across other parts of your body.
7. No Visible Cavity, but Severe Pain
Some people assume that if there is no visible cavity, their tooth pain isn’t serious. However, an infection inside the tooth doesn’t always show on the surface. Is root canal necessary if there is no infection? While an infection is a common reason, a root canal may also be needed if the nerve inside the tooth is damaged due to injury or deep decay that hasn’t yet reached the surface.
When to Seek Professional Dental Care
If you feel any of these symptoms, then it would be best to consult a professional dentist immediately. A root canal therapy near you can help alleviate pain, save the tooth, and prevent further complications from arising. On the other hand, neglecting these symptoms can lead to infection, which may require even more expensive dental procedures in the long run. Root canal therapy is one of the most effective treatments with a high success rate, which helps patients keep their natural teeth for many years.
Consult with ToothMatters Dental Care Today!
If you are in need of a dentist in Richmond Hill who specializes in root canal therapy, visit ToothMatters Dental Care. We assure you of very effective and personalized treatment to restore oral health. Contact us today for root canal therapy and schedule an appointment before the issue worsens.