Signs and Symptoms That You Need Root Canal Therapy

A root canal endodontist is a dentist who focuses on saving teeth. A root canal refers to the dental procedure that helps to clean out the decay in your tooth’s pulp and root. This treatment option can repair and also save an infected or badly decayed tooth. A root canal can also be done by a general dentist.

When to visit a root canal endodontist

The only way people can be sure if they need root canal therapy is by visiting an endodontist or a dentist. But people should look out for particular warning signs. Seeking treatment early can increase the chances of a good outcome. Here are some signs and symptoms that may indicate the need for root canal therapy.

Severe pain while biting and chewing

Tooth pain is one of the signs that a person may need a root canal. Some people usually experience sharp pain when biting down on food. This issue may be caused by a crack in the tooth, decay or a loose filling. It is also possible that there may be damage to the pulp tissue inside a person’s tooth. For this issue, a person should get the matter evaluated by a dentist. A patient may be referred to an endodontist if there is pulp tissue damage.

Lingering sensitivity

Sometimes, a tooth may hurt after eating hot or cold foods. A person may need a root canal if the pain lingers for an extended period of time, even when not eating or drinking. Lingering pain that lasts for more than 30 seconds after eating cold or hot foods may be an indication that the pulp has been irreversibly damaged. This could be due to physical trauma or deep decay. A person should see an endodontist or dentist as soon as possible. This will increase the chances of saving the tooth with root canal treatment.

Cracked tooth

A cracked tooth means a crack extends from the tooth’s chewing surface vertically toward the root. The tooth has not yet been separated into different pieces, but the crack may spread gradually. Early diagnosis can help save a tooth. If the crack extends into the pulp, the tooth can be treated with the root canal procedure and a crown to ensure the crack does not spread.

But if a crack extends below the gumline, it would not be treatable and saving the tooth will not be possible. In this case, extracting the tooth may be necessary. This is why early treatment is very important. A cracked tooth that is not treated will steadily worsen, which will eventually result in the loss of the tooth. Early diagnosis and treatment can help save these teeth.

Takeaway

An infection inside your tooth’s pulp and root can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. If you have persistent tooth pain, a cracked tooth or other symptoms like pimples on the gums or tenderness or swollen gums, you might need a root canal. You should see your dentist or endodontist as soon as you can to get a diagnosis and treatment. If you have any questions about root canal therapy, talk to a root canal endodontist today.

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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