5 Signs I Need a Root Canal
Inside each tooth is a space called the pulp chamber that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissues. If a tooth’s soft pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, chips, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental procedures, root canal therapy is needed to save the tooth and restore its function. The endodontic treatment involves removing the problematic pulp tissues and sealing the tooth to prevent the infection from recurring.
The following are five signs you need a root canal treatment.
1. Severe, Persistent Pain
Persistent pain is one of the tell-tale signs of tooth pulp damage. The pain may be consistent or may bother you from time to time. However, it will never completely resolve without treatment. While tooth pain does not necessarily mean you require a root canal treatment, most infected teeth cause pain, which usually gets more intense with chewing or applying pressure to the area.
2. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold Temperatures
Most people have had a brush with tooth sensitivity, but the pain typically resolves once the stimulus is removed. When teeth are severely infected, the discomfort lingers long after consuming that hot or frozen treat. If you experience tooth sensitivity, it’s important to get your teeth checked to rule out potential damage requiring root canal therapy.
3. Tooth Discoloration
Pulp infection often leads to tooth discoloration. Trauma to the tooth or the breakdown of the soft pulp tissues can damage the tooth roots and result in a grayish-black appearance. While tooth discoloration can result from causes other than tooth pulp damage, it’s always a good idea to get your tooth checked if you notice one of your teeth changing in color.
4. Gum Swelling
Swollen gums near a painful tooth often indicate tooth pulp damage. The swelling may come and go and may be tender to the touch. A little bump or pimple may also develop on the gums, indicating an abscess. Pus may ooze from the abscess causing bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Gum swelling or bumps are warning signs requiring prompt evaluation.
5. Signs of Tooth Damage
Teeth can be chipped or cracked due to chewing something hard, playing contact sports, or an accident. That provides an entryway for harmful bacteria, leading to inflammation and infection. Even if an injured tooth isn’t chipped or cracked, the trauma can sometimes damage the tooth’s nerve necessitating a root canal treatment.
Root Canal Therapy Near Me
If you notice any signs or symptoms of root canal problems, contact your trusted team at Rancho Mirage and Palm Springs Endodontics. We will evaluate your unique needs and may recommend a root canal treatment to relieve your discomfort and restore your oral health. Our team is committed to providing cutting-edge, gentle care for a stress-free and positive experience. Call us and schedule your appointment today!