Did you know that every year, dentists in the United States perform over 15 million root canal treatments?
That’s more than 41,000 procedures a day! With numbers that high, it’s no surprise that you might be wondering if your recent toothache could signal the need for this common but often misunderstood procedure.
Understanding the signs and symptoms that might warrant a root canal is crucial in preventing discomfort, preserving your oral health, and avoiding more serious complications down the line.
To help you out, we have written a guide that tells you how to know if you need a root canal procedure. Keep reading if you’d like to learn more.
What Is a Root Canal Procedure?
A root canal treatment is a type of dental procedure often grouped under periodontal services, which refers to any care related to your gums and the structures that support your teeth.
But a root canal is more specifically concerned with the insides of your teeth.
Inside every tooth, beneath the hard outer shell, there’s a soft, sensitive core known as the pulp. This pulp contains nerves and blood vessels.
Sometimes, due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, a crack, or an injury, this pulp can get inflamed or infected. That’s when you might need a root canal treatment.
In a root canal procedure, the dentist removes this damaged pulp. Then, they thoroughly clean the inside of your tooth and seal it to protect it. Finally, they place a filling or crown over the tooth to restore its shape and function.
The root canal process might sound scary, but with modern dental technology and anesthesia, most people report that it’s no more painful than getting a filling!
1. Persistent Pain
One common sign that you might need a root canal is persistent pain in your tooth. This isn’t just any ordinary toothache, but a constant, throbbing pain that doesn’t let up.
It might even keep you awake at night. What’s happening is the infected pulp in your tooth is irritating the nerves, causing the pain.
But not all types of pain point to a root canal. Sometimes, gum disease or a cavity could also cause toothache.
A damaged filling could expose sensitive parts of your tooth, causing discomfort. Even a sinus infection can cause pain that feels like a toothache because your sinuses and upper teeth are so close to each other.
That’s why it’s crucial to seek dental care to determine the cause of your pain.
2. Sensitivity to Heat or Cold
Another sign you might need a root canal is sensitivity to heat or cold. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill “I-just-ate-an-ice-cream-too-fast” kind of sensitivity.
Instead, it’s a lingering, sharp pain that’s triggered when you consume hot or cold foods or drinks and continues even after the temperature stimulus is gone.
For instance, if you’re sipping a cup of hot tea and you feel a sudden, sharp pain that persists, it could be a sign that the pulp of your tooth is infected or inflamed.
This sensitivity happens because when your tooth’s pulp is damaged, the nerves become more sensitive to changes in temperature. The pain you feel is the nerves reacting to these changes.
3. Discoloration or Darkening of the Tooth
Discoloration or darkening of a tooth can also signal a problem. This usually means the tooth is not just stained, but that the pulp inside the tooth is infected.
In this case, the infection has caused the internal tissue of the tooth to die. It’s a sign that the tooth is not healthy and might need a root canal.
When you notice your tooth is turning gray or darker than your other teeth, it’s important to act quickly. An infected pulp can lead to an abscess (a pus-filled pocket) at the roots of your tooth.
This is a serious condition that can cause swelling and severe pain, and it can also affect your overall health.
It’s crucial to consult with a dentist promptly. If a root canal is needed, it’s better to undergo the procedure sooner rather than later to prevent further complications.
4. Swollen Gums
If your gums are swollen or tender around a particular tooth, it might indicate a need for a root canal. This swelling can sometimes be accompanied by a small bump, like a pimple.
It’s a sign that there’s an infection deep within the tooth, causing the surrounding tissues to inflame.
Even if you’re following a good oral hygiene routine, including quarterly tooth whitening, this issue may persist if the infection isn’t addressed.
5. Chipped or Cracked Tooth
A chipped or cracked tooth can often lead to the need for a root canal, especially if the damage reaches the pulp of the tooth.
When a tooth is damaged, it exposes the inner tissue to bacteria present in the mouth. This can lead to infection and inflammation, and you might experience pain or sensitivity in the affected tooth.
6. Tooth Mobility
Finally, if a tooth feels loose or moves more than usual, it could be a sign you need a root canal. When the pulp of a tooth gets infected, it can weaken the bone around the tooth, causing it to feel loose.
This is a serious sign that should prompt immediate dental attention, as it could risk the loss of the tooth if left untreated.
How to Know if You Need a Root Canal Procedure
It is important to know what the warning signs are when you need a root canal procedure.
Make sure to visit your dentist as soon as possible if you are experiencing persistent tooth pain, if your gums are swollen, and if you are experiencing tooth mobility.
Contrary to what many people think, root canals are not painful. Lastly, understand that the best dentists in Katy, TX are highly experienced and use state-of-the-art equipment for all of their procedures.
That’s where Katy Gentle Dentists comes in. We are your local leaders in professional teeth whitening services. Don’t hesitate to contact us to get started today!