Signs You Need a Root Canal
Nothing causes our patients to shudder faster than mentioning the phrase, “root canal”.
Root canals can be uncomfortable, invasive, and lengthy — but equally as irritating can be the initial signs and symptoms that surface indicating you may need to book a root canal procedure.
Though you’ll need an assessment from a dental professional to be sure, there are some surefire signs you’re likely going to need a root canal procedure.
Before we dive into that, however, let’s take a quick look at a root canal procedure.
What is a root canal?
When you’ve got an infected root canal, that means you have inflamed or infected pulp deep inside the tissues of your teeth. Not only does this inflammation cause you intense pain and discomfort, but the “root” of the problem, AKA, the havoc-wreaking bacteria, is also threatening the integrity of your oral health.
A root canal simply means clearing out that infected tissue (or roots from inside the canals). A dentist or endodontist — a dental professional specializing in dental pulp and the tissues surrounding the roots of a tooth — carefully cleans, disinfects, fills, and finally, seals off that “root-canaled” tooth so bacteria is gone, and can’t get back inside.
What causes infected roots?
A root canal will likely be needed when a tooth is badly decayed or seriously infected from an injury, or simply, from genetics.
A root canal might be needed from a:
Cracked, chipped or damaged tooth
Deep cavity
Previous filling
It’s important to keep in mind that anywhere bacteria can access can result in the need for invasive procedures like root canals. That’s why routine dental cleanings and regular dental care are so critical in protecting your overall oral health.
Top three signs you need a root canal
Again, it’s best to book a dental exam to get the whole story of your teeth and gums, the following signs indicate you may need to start thinking about the possibility of a root canal procedure:
Severe pain while biting or chewing
Lingering tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures (even after the sensation is removed)
Gum health changes such as pimpling, swelling, tenderness, deep decay or darkening
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, be sure to contact your dentist immediately. Left unchecked, infected roots not only cause you intense pain and discomfort, but they can cause more permanent oral health issues down the road.