Endodontic Treatment: 5 Signs a Root Canal Is Necessary

In a root canal treatment, an endodontist will remove the decay from your tooth. The goal of this treatment is to prevent the decay from spreading. This can save your tooth from having to be extracted. There are several signs that may mean it is time to consider a root canal.

Constant pain

Patients who need root canal treatments often experience nearly constant pain. While it may go away from time to time, it will always return. The pain may feel like it is deep in the bone that supports the tooth. It may also feel like it is in the jaw or in the face. Sometimes, a patient may mistake the tooth that is painful. The pain can seem to radiate from other surrounding teeth.

Sensitivity to heat and cold

Some patients may have sensitivity when drinking or eating hot or cold items. This could feel like either a sharp pain or a dull ache. If this pain lingers after eating or drinking, it can be a sign that a root canal is needed. This can be a sign that the nerves and blood vessels are damaged or infected.

Discolored tooth

If the pulp becomes infected, the tooth may become discolored. For example, trauma to the tooth can cause the tooth to take on a gray appearance. This is usually more noticeable in the front teeth. When the tissue begins to break down, it can damage the roots.

When the roots are damaged, it prevents the blood from properly flowing to the tooth. If there is not enough blood flow in the tooth, the pulp may die. There are other causes of discolored teeth too. However, it is a good idea to always see a dentist if one tooth looks grayer than the rest.

Swollen gums

If one tooth is painful and has swollen gums near it, this can be a sign of an infection. The swelling may not be there constantly. Patients may experience tenderness in the area when touching. When the pulp dies, it creates acid waste products. This causes swelling near the tip of the root.

Pain when touching a tooth

Extreme tooth sensitivity can happen from severe decay of the tooth. The nerve can also be damaged, which is a painful condition. When this happens, its ligament often becomes sensitive from the waste tissue. This can only be treated with a root canal procedure. Patients may experience tooth sensitivity when eating or touching the tooth. It may not go away after the patient has finished eating.

Visit an endodontist for a root canal treatment

There are several signs that it may be time for a root canal. While swollen gums, pain when touching the tooth and sensitivity are all symptoms, they are not all. A cracked tooth or a loose tooth can also be signs that you should consider a root canal treatment. Getting regular dental examinations can help a dentist catch these problems early.

Request an appointment here: https://santarosaendodontics.com or call Santa Rosa Endodontics at (707) 409-1177 for an appointment in our Ukiah office.

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