Do you know your overall health depends largely on your dental health? For so many people, root canals are something to fear. The mere mention of it sends shivers down their spines.
However, here’s the catch: you can escape the worst if you catch it early. Root canals are not as intimidating as you would imagine! On the contrary, being able to see the symptoms before they occur will spare you further procedures.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental treatment used to address infections or damage within a tooth. If the soft tissue, or pulp, within a tooth becomes infected, it will be extremely painful.
A root canal Airdrie, remarkably removes the infection and saves the tooth. The treatment must be done to save the tooth’s structure, particularly when infection has extended to the tooth root. If you leave it untreated, the infection may spread and cause worse dental issues.
The 10 Common Signs You Need A Root Canal
You May Get Persistent Tooth Pain
If tooth pain persists, it’s more than a mere ache. If biting down or touching the tooth leads to extreme pain, this could be a sign of nerve damage. Persistent pain is usually the initial sign that the tooth pulp is infected and should be seen by a dentist.
Sensitivity to Hot or Cold is Another Sign
Prolonged sensitivity, particularly when consuming hot or cold drinks, can be a sign of infection. A pulp that is damaged within the tooth responds painfully to temperature, and it becomes difficult to eat or drink as usual.
You May Get Swollen or Tender Gums
Swollen, painful, or colored gums around the infected tooth are symptoms of infection. Tenderness of the gums can be an early sign that the infection is spreading and indicate the necessity of a root canal.
You May Notice Discoloration of the Tooth
A gray or dark discoloration of a tooth can be an indication of nerves that are damaged internally. When the nerve is dead, the tooth will change color. Discoloration is a sign that the pulp is compromised and needs a root canal.
A Pimple on the Gums Is a Sign
A tiny pimple-like swelling on the gums close to the infected tooth may be a dental abscess. This is a pus-filled abscess, an obvious indication of infection that usually requires a root canal to stop the spread.
You Feel Pain When Touching or Applying Pressure
If you feel pain upon touching or pressing your tooth, this may be an indicator that the infection has spread to the root. The nerves within the tooth are sensitive to any form of pressure, and the pain may increase over time.
Tooth Mobility Is Another Sign
A tooth can become loose if an infection reaches the root of the tooth. This occurs when the underlying tissue and bone are weakened by severe infection. The dentist will assess the situation, and they may suggest a root canal to save the tooth.
You May Feel Sharp, Stabbing Pain
Severe, stabbing pain can be an acute warning sign of nerve irritation or an infection within the tooth. Pain that recurs can indicate that the pulp is infected, and a root canal will be needed to end the pain.
Tenderness Around the Jaw Can Be an Indicator
On other occasions, infection may spread to the surrounding tissues from the tooth and lead to swelling or tenderness of the jaw. In such cases, it is clear that the infection has spread to the surrounding tissue, and a root canal is necessary to prevent further damage.
You May Have Difficulty Chewing or Opening Your Mouth
Pain while chewing or difficulty opening your mouth may be caused by an infected tooth root. The infection may lead to pain upon any movement of the jaw and necessitate urgent dental care, such as a root canal.
Catching the issue early can save your tooth and prevent further complications. Don’t wait. Book your dental appointment with us today and protect your smile!
