Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure that is used to treat infections affecting the pulp of a tooth. While many people may experience some discomfort or pain on their teeth from time to time, there are certain signs that indicate you may need a root canal.
1. Severe toothache
If you experience persistent pain in a tooth for more than a few days, especially when you bite down or chew, or when it worsens at night, it could be a sign that the tooth’s pulp is infected. This pain may be severe and accompanied by swelling, sensitivity to pressure, hot or cold temperatures, or a persistent bad taste in your mouth.
2. Gum inflammation
If you notice that your gums are inflamed or swollen around a particular tooth, or have a small, persistent bump near the area, it could be a sign that tooth decay has spread to the gums through the root of the tooth.
3. A darkened or discolored tooth
When bacteria in the mouth eat away at the tooth’s enamel, it can cause the tooth to become discolored. This discoloration may appear as a brown, grey, or black spot on the tooth. This is often a sign that the tooth’s pulp is damaged.
4. Dental abscess
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms at the root of the tooth. It is usually caused by bacterial infection that begins in the pulp of a tooth and spreads to the surrounding tissues. During root canal treatment, your dentist removes the damaged pulp and drains the abscess to save the tooth from dying.
5. A cracked or chipped tooth
Trauma is often the reason of a cracked or chipped tooth. It may extend deep into the tooth, affecting the pulp and causing an infection. If it is left untreated, there is a higher risk of tooth decay.
If you experience any of these symptoms or signs, be sure to contact us as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.