Pulp infection happens when bacteria penetrate the tooth’s hard enamel. You may need root canal treatment to save the tooth whenever this occurs. Here, the infected pulp is removed during the procedure. Then, the tooth gets sealed to prevent re-infection.
Pulp infection is just one of many scenarios when getting a root canal treatment becomes critical. This article will cover the most blatant indicators that a root canal is necessary.
Quick Overview of a Root Canal
Root canal therapy involves cleansing the inner tooth of inflamed and infected pulp. The medical term for a root canal is endodontic treatment.
“Endo” and “Odont” are Greek words. The former means “within,” while the latter denotes “tooth.”
The first part of any endodontic treatment is extracting damaged pulp. Afterwards, the root canal will undergo cleaning and disinfection. The last part of a root canal treatment is filling and sealing the treatment area.
Ultimately, your dentist will cap the tooth with a crown or other treatment after performing a root canal.
You need a root canal once you discover its symptoms. Delaying the procedure means you’re at risk of the infection causing further damage to other parts of your body. We’ll discuss these symptoms more in the next section.
Related Article: How Long Does a Root Canal Treatment Take?
Symptoms Indicating You Need a Root Canal
The best time for a root canal treatment is when you start experiencing the signs listed below.
Extreme Pain
Any discomfort in the mouth warrants a visit to the dentist. But particular pain forms may indicate the need for a root canal.
You may have an infected or dead tooth needing extraction if:
- The dental pain surges suddenly and doesn’t let up easily
- Your gums or teeth hurt more when you’re in a specific position
- Your teeth and face feel pressed against something when you lie down or bend over
These three pain types may require you to undergo a root canal.
Gum Bumps
The presence of gum lumps may indicate the presence of an infected tooth. The dental term for these bumps is fistula. They are the first symptoms of an underlying problem that might require a root canal treatment.
Sensitivity to High and Low Temperatures
Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures doesn’t always necessitate a root canal. However, root canal patients are especially susceptible to discomfort and sensitivity long after consuming hot and cold edibles. If you’re experiencing protracted teeth sensitivity, it may be time to see a dentist,
Red, Swollen, and Puffy Gums
An infected tooth may be the cause of your swollen gums. Red, swollen or puffy gums are typical after vigorous flossing or brushing. But you might need a root canal if the swelling persists and your gums become uncomfortable or painful to touch.
Gum Discolouration
Gum disease is sometimes indicated by gum discoloration. In other words, the gums will rot when a tooth is infected and deteriorating. Therefore, you likely need a root canal if you experience this symptom.
Teeth Breakage
Another indicator you need a root canal may be tooth damage in the form of chips or cracks. For one, any trauma leading to tooth chips or cracks can also foster pulp infections.
Similarly, the damaged tooth may die from decay or infection because it’s already fractured. In both instances, you need to see a root canal dentist in Ontario to save the damaged tooth.
Gum Soreness
You may need a root canal if your gums are painful when you touch them. In severe cases, you may feel the pain even without any pressure on your gums. Please inform the dentist of your gum sensitivity upon your appointment.
Abscess
On an x-ray, an abscess will appear as a black area. It’s a hole formed in the jaw because infection prevents new bone from forming.
An abscessed tooth should be visible on x-rays taken at your routine dental checkup. Your dentist will likely suggest a root canal to you at this point.
Do Root Canal Procedures Hurt?
Root canal procedures come with minimal discomfort, thanks to anesthesia. But you may experience some sensitivity and pain in the days following a root canal.
The benefits and risks of any dental treatment need careful consideration. You and your dentist should decide on a root canal unanimously. And it should be after a thorough evaluation of your circumstances.
Pros
- Alleviates your root canal pain
- You avoid losing teeth bone support
- You avoid an extraction
- You avoid implant costs
Cons
- Maintaining an open mouth for a procedure can be very painful.
Root Canal Therapy Recovery
Do the following to take care of your teeth after a root canal procedure:
- Soft foods are best until your healing is complete
- Take warm water to ease any discomfort after finishing your treatment. It should be minimal and go away after a few days
- You should schedule another appointment if anti-inflammatory medication fails to alleviate dental discomfort
- Maintain a clean dental hygiene
- Avoid a diet high in sugar
- Avoid tobacco and its products
- Learn more about basic dental hygiene to care for your teeth and gums.
Related Article: How to Restore Bad Teeth
Summary
There may be a need for root canal treatment if you experience any of the symptoms explained in this article. So, you should see a dentist for an expert assessment to ascertain your dental care requirements.
The best part is root canals aren’t as distressing as they once were. Anesthesia relieves discomfort during treatment, and there are minimal side effects afterwards.
At Osmin Denture, we’re home to experienced root canal dentists. We’ve seen it all and can adequately provide answers to whether a root canal treatment is necessary to treat your symptoms. Call 647-294-3310 for an appointment to discuss your symptoms.
