Do I Need A Root Canal?
It often comes as an unsettling surprise to discover that you’re going to require a root canal. Popular media has made the root canal seem like a torturous affair, but modern root canals are a nearly painless procedure. Unlike cavities, it can be difficult to discern if there’s a root canal in your future before you end up needing one. There are a few hints to let you know if an infection has set in, and whether a root canal may end up saving a tooth, you’d otherwise lose. If you’ve, have dental symptoms that make you wonder if a root canal may be beneficial for you in the future, read on.
5 Ways To Know A Root Canal Is Necessary
Dental pain is one of the primary ways to know that you’re experiencing problems with your teeth. When a root canal is necessary, you may experience pain, though in severe cases, the root may already be dead. If so, you won’t experience pain, but these other symptoms may let you know that something needs to be done.
- Cracking or Chipping Of Teeth: Sharp impacts or chewing food to hard to be safe for your teeth can result in cracks or chips forming. Both of these conditions can reveal the pulp hidden beneath enamel and dentin, allowing infection-causing bacteria to reach the root. When infection occurs a root canal treatment may be necessary.
- Sensitivity to Temperature: Infected teeth typically have a higher sensitivity to temperature variations, provided that the root is still alive in spite of the infection. Beverages and foods that are otherwise safe to eat may cause pain if your teeth have developed sensitivity. If you experience this regularly, and especially if it lingers, you should call your dentist.
- Swollen Gums: Infected gums typically have a raised, red, and angry appearance and can often bleed when brushed. These signs can point to the presence of periodontal disease or even an abscess, especially if there’s a pimple-like formation on the gum.
- Dental Discoloration: Severe cases of infection can cause the teeth to become discolored from the rot taking place inside. As the pulp becomes even more infected, the nerves themselves may wind up being damaged, causing pain to fade in spite of the problem still existing. A root canal is typically the only way to save a tooth at this stage.
- Deepset Decay: When the infection has reached into the depths of the tooth, you won’t be able to save the tooth through brushing and flossing. In these cases, the infection must be eliminated, and only a root canal can save the day.
Dr. Scott Simpson proudly serves the community of Tigard, OR with dental care services that include performing root canals. By picking up the phone, you can schedule an appointment with our team of dedicated dental experts that will help determine what treatment may be right for your oral health concerns. When you need a root canal, every moment counts if you want to save your tooth, so call now!
