What Are the Signs That Root Canal Therapy Is Needed?

Root canal therapy is a dental technique that helps repair and save badly infected or decayed teeth. The treatment is done when the pulp, comprising nerves and blood vessels, is affected. 
 

During therapy, the dentist removes the pulp before cleaning and sealing the inside of the tooth. Many people are scared of root canals because of the perception that they are painful. However, most patients who have had the procedure report that it is not more painful than other dental treatments. 

 

 

Persistent Tooth Pain

 

 

Experiencing persistent pain can be a sign that you need root canal therapy. The pain may be consistent, or it can come and go periodically. The pain is felt deep in the bone of the tooth. Some people experience referred pain in the other teeth, the jaw, or the face. 

 

Tooth pain may be due to other causes, including gum disease, cavity, damaged filling, impacted tooth, or a sinus infection. It is vital to visit a dentist for early diagnosis and treatment. 

 

 

Tooth Discoloration  

 

 

When the pulp is infected, the tooth can become discolored. Breakdown of the inner tissue or trauma to the tooth can damage the teeth roots. The tooth pulp dies due to an inadequate supply of blood, which results in discoloration or a gray-black appearance. 

 

The discoloration is usually more visible in the front or anterior teeth. If you notice one of your teeth is changing color, you should visit your dentist as soon as possible.  

 

 

Extreme Tooth Sensitivity 

 

 

Do you experience sensitivity when you eat or drink something cold? Does drinking hot beverages or eating hot food hurt your tooth? If you experience sharp pain or a dull ache in your tooth or teeth, it is a sign of sensitivity. 

 

If the pain or discomfort lingers even after you stop drinking or eating, you may require root canal therapy. Sensitivity may be a sign that nerves and blood vessels are damaged or infected. 

 

 

Swollen Gums 

 

 

If the gums around a painful tooth are swollen, it can indicate an issue that requires root canal therapy. In most cases, the swelling comes and goes, and the gum may be tender to the touch. In some cases, the gum is not painful. 

 

Swelling is usually due to acidic waste products from the dead tissue, causing edema outside the root tip. A small pimple may appear on the gum, known as a gum boil or abscess. It can produce pus that releases a bad odor.

 

 

Cracked or Chipped Tooth

 

 

A cracked or chipped tooth from an injury may require root canal therapy. Trauma from sports, an accident, or chewing something hard can damage the tooth. Bacteria in the damaged tooth can cause inflammation and infection. 

 

In some cases, the injury may not cause cracking or chipping, but it can still damage the tooth nerves. Inflamed nerves can lead to pain and sensitivity, which may need root canal therapy. 
 

If a tooth is painful when chewing, it could be due to nerve damage or severe tooth decay. The ligament in the root becomes hypersensitive as the pulp dries. The condition may need root canal therapy. Tooth mobility can be a sign of infection, which may require dental therapy. 

 

For more signs that root canal therapy is needed, visit Today's Family Dental at our Tampa or Lutz, Florida office. Call (813) 212-8700 to schedule an appointment today.

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