5 Signs That You Need a Root Canal

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that saves an infected or damaged tooth. It is a simple procedure. However, many people fear it until it becomes too late. Delaying treatment leads to further complications that can also result in tooth loss. 


It is vital to recognize the signs that show you need a root canal and seek treatment promptly. Here are the five signs indicating that you need a root canal.

 

Persistent Pain

 

Persistent pain is an obvious sign that you need a root canal. You may have a damaged or infected tooth if you experience a constant throbbing pain that does not go away. You may feel pain in your affected tooth, surrounding area, or jaw. You may also feel it when you bite or apply pressure to the affected tooth.
 

Persistent pain may mean the infection has already spread to the tooth's root, where the nerve endings are. It may be severe enough to affect your daily activities and may have other symptoms, such as fever, swelling, and redness.

 

Sensitivity to Temperature

 

You may have a damaged or infected tooth if you experience sharp pain or discomfort when you consume cold or hot beverages. The sensitivity can be long-lasting or temporary. You may feel it in one or more teeth. 


Temperature sensitivity is usually a sign that you have damaged or exposed nerve endings in your tooth. It can occur due to gum disease, tooth decay, or trauma. The sensitivity can progress into persistent pain and cause further complications if left untreated.

 

Gum Swelling and Tenderness

 

You may have an infection in the root of your tooth if you notice that your gums are tender to the touch, red, and swollen. The swelling may have pus or discharge localized to one tooth or affect multiple teeth.


Gum tenderness and swelling are often due to the spread of infection from the tooth to the surrounding tissue. It can occur due to a deep cavity, chip or crack in the tooth, or advanced gum disease. If left untreated, the infection can spread further and lead to bone and tooth loss.

 

Discoloration of the Tooth

 

Your tooth may have internal damage if it starts turning dark or gray. Discoloration may occur due to aging, decay, or trauma to the tooth. However, it may indicate a more severe problem if it occurs suddenly and has sensitivity or pain.


The death of the nerve endings of the tooth causes discoloration of the tooth. It can occur due to an infection that spreads to the root, cutting off the blood supply. The tooth can become weakened and susceptible to further damage if left untreated.

 

Bad Breath or Taste in Your Mouth

 

You may need a root canal if your breath smells bad, even after brushing or flossing. It may occur due to a damaged or infected tooth in your mouth. Bad breath or taste can happen due to the buildup of bacteria in your mouth, which can develop from an infection in your tooth or gums.


Bad breath or bad taste is usually a sign that the infection has spread to the tooth's root and is affecting the surrounding tissue. It can spread further and cause severe complications if left untreated.


For more information on a root canal procedure, visit O.C. Lakes Dental at our office in Irvine, California. Please call (949) 356-7860 to discuss any questions with our team of experts or to schedule an appointment today.

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