Do You Need a Root Canal Treatment? 5 Signs to Look Out For
Root canal treatment may sound daunting, but it can be the best solution to YOUR dental problems. It removes the damaged or infected pulp within your tooth — replacing the clump of blood vessels and nerves with a filling. And, sometimes, a simple filling isn’t enough to fix the issue.
But deciding whether you need the treatment or not can be difficult. This post discusses the five signs you may need root canal treatment for better decision-making.
How Can Getting Root Canal Treatment Save Your Tooth?
Root canal treatment can save your infected or chipped tooth by filling in the gaps made by bacteria. It helps a damaged tooth be saved from extraction, which most dentists avoid.
Many people dread having a root canal, but it’s an effective treatment that can save a tooth or two. And here’s how it can help:
Prevent Further Tooth Loss
Root canal treatment can save your tooth from extraction as dentists try to avoid it as much as possible. When your tooth becomes infected or swollen, it can cause persistent pain. If left untreated, the former can spread to your other teeth, causing more severe issues.
This procedure can prevent infection by removing damaged or infected pulp inside your teeth. Hence, you can save your tooth, letting it stay with you a little longer.
Relieves Pain and Discomfort
Another benefit of a root canal is that it can relieve the pain inflicted by an infected or swollen tooth. When the pulp inside your tooth gets damaged, it can cause heightened sensitivity.
A root canal can help remove the damaged pulp inside your tooth, relieving discomfort.
Restores Tooth Function
An infected or swollen tooth will have an impacted function. Chewing and biting can be more difficult, making your tooth weaker and more prone to damage.
A root canal can restore your tooth’s function by removing the damaged pulp and filling the gaps. It’ll strengthen your affected tooth and restore its function.
Prevents Future Dental Problems
If left untreated, an infected or swollen tooth can cause more severe dental problems. After all, they can help the infection spread to other teeth, causing more damage or bone loss.
Root canal treatment can prevent further problems by removing the pulp and stopping the infection from spreading.
5 Signs You Need Root Canal Treatment
Heightened Sensitivity
A significant sign you need root canal treatment is if you’re experiencing heightened sensitivity in your tooth. Many factors, including cavities and gum disease, can cause toothaches and sensitivity.
But if the sensitivity persists after using over-the-counter painkillers or home remedies, you likely need a root canal.
Gum Inflammation
Another sign that you may need root canal treatment is gum inflammation. The swelling results from bacteria from the infected pulp spreading to your gums.
If you notice tenderness or redness on your gums, visiting your dentist ASAP is crucial. Your dentist will help check the cause of the swelling, creating the necessary treatment plan.
Tooth Discoloration
Tooth discoloration is another sign that you may need a root canal. A tooth darker than your surrounding teeth could mean it’s dying or has already died. If left untreated, tooth discoloration can lead to more severe issues, such as an abscess, causing further complications.
The Appearance of Cracks or Chips
Cracks or chips in the tooth can also indicate needing root canal treatment. Bacteria can invade your tooth’s pulp, causing an infection. And this instance, you’ll need a root canal to save your tooth from extraction — preserving it longer.
X-Ray Results
X-ray results can also indicate whether you need a root canal or not. You will likely need the treatment if the X-ray shows an infected or inflamed tooth. And for further confirmation, your dentist can make a more accurate diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the first sign I should get a root canal treatment?
A: Once you experience sudden sensitivity and persisting pain, it’s time to get a root canal. It can replace the damaged or infected pulp within your affected tooth. And this can save it from getting extracted, preserving it longer.
Q: At what stage should I get a root canal?
A: When your dental X-rays show you have a damaged pulp caused by bacterial infection, it’s time to get a root canal. After all, the pulp might become swollen due to the bacteria, causing it to spread. You might experience persistent pain when eating or drinking colder and hotter meals or beverages.
Q: Where will root canal pain start?
A: You’ll begin feeling root canal pain within the root of your tooth. Aside from that, you may see a visible fistula, inflammation, and temperature sensitivity. And the bacteria may create foul-tasting drainage alongside the gum tissues near your root.
Final Thoughts
Don’t hesitate to contact and visit your nearest dentist if you are experiencing any of the mentioned symptoms and consult for root canal treatment. They’ll help determine whether the dental procedure’s necessary for you. Ignoring these signs can lead to further dental issues and eventual tooth loss.
Don’t hesitate to call us at (619) 344-0475 for all your teeth and oral health concerns.
