Signs & Symptoms That Indicate the Need for a Root Canal

If you’re suffering from a toothache, you may need a root canal to relieve the pain and save your tooth. In the past, tooth decay often resulted in a tooth extraction. Today, however, root canal therapy can help save your teeth. In fact, over 15 million root canals are performed by dentists throughout the U.S each year. That’s why it’s essential to know the warning signs that may indicate the need for a root canal so that you can seek out a professional diagnosis and treatment.

At Summit Dental Group, our dentists in Boise, Idaho, are dedicated to helping patients maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. Taking care of your oral health involves regular dental visits to help detect issues before they become major problems. Root canals are necessary when bacteria invade a tooth, causing an infection that threatens your oral health.

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is a procedure that involves removing the infected nerve or pulp of a tooth before sealing it to prevent further damage or infections. Infections like this are often caused by an injury to a tooth, tooth decay, or a cracked tooth.

During a root canal procedure, a dentist at Summit Dental Group will use a drill to remove any infected tissues. However, the procedure isn’t painful at all. Instead, it’s comparable to that of getting a cavity filled, and we offer various pain relief and sedation options to relieve any pain, discomfort, or anxiety. Only a dentist can determine whether or not you need a root canal, but it’s important to be aware of the following warning signs and symptoms.

1. Toothache

Any unexplained toothache is a good reason to visit your dentist in Boise, Idaho. A toothache can quickly lead to an infection or damaged nerves without prompt attention. If you’re experiencing a dull ache, sharp or shooting pain, or any other painful symptom that doesn’t go away, you may have an infected tooth.

2. Temperature Sensitivity

Many people experience tooth sensitivity to changes in temperature, especially when eating or drinking hot or cold foods and beverages. For example, eating ice cream can cause your teeth to hurt, but this kind of sensitivity is often normal and temporary. However, sensitivity that lasts for several hours after exposure can indicate an infected tooth.

3. Pressure Sensitivity

Similarly to temperature sensitivity, your tooth could hurt if you bite down on something hard. While this can be a normal pain response, pain from light pressure, such as chewing soft foods, can indicate something is wrong.

4. Tooth Discoloration

An infected tooth can often change its color. Different from surface stains caused by things like coffee or wine, tooth discoloration from within a tooth can mean a tooth is dying, making it critical to seek the help of a dentist to get a root canal.

5. Inflamed Gums

Red, tender, or inflamed gums are a good indication that something is wrong. This is especially true if symptoms persist. Gum disease, also known as gingivitis, is one of the most common causes of inflammation. This kind of infection can spread to the nerve or pulp of a tooth, resulting in the need for a root canal.

Summit Dental Group

If you’re experiencing a toothache or other dental issue, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with a dentist in Boise, Idaho. At Summit Dental Group, we care about our patients and will answer any questions you may have while we evaluate your oral health to treat or prevent any issues from developing. Contact us by filling out our online form or give us a call at (208) 314-2275. We look forward to seeing you!