3 Major Signs You Need to See Your Dentist for a Root Canal

3 Major Signs You Need to See Your Dentist for a Root Canal

 

 By Lizzie Weakley

 

Nobody relishes the thought of a root canal, but there are times when it is the only option to treat a tooth and eliminate pain. Unlike the nerves in other parts of the body, when the nerve of tooth becomes damaged it cannot repair itself, leaving the only option endodontic therapy to remove the nerve. If you are suffering from any of these three major symptoms, it is likely that you need to see your dentist for a root canal.

 

1. Sensitivity to heat or cold.

According to Coquitlam dentists at the Coquitlam Centre Dental Clinic, if you are experiencing sensitivity when you eat and drink hot or cold foods and drinks, it is likely time to see a dentist. Typically a tooth with a damaged nerve is first sensitive to cold and then becomes sensitive to heat as the nerve dies. As the tooth becomes sensitive to heat, the pain may actually become relieved by the presence of cold. Because teeth may have temperature sensitivity related to other problems, it is best to see a dentist to evaluate the problem and determine the best course of treatment. As the problem progresses, the sensitivity may progress to pain (see sign #2).

 

2. Tooth Pain.

Like with temperature sensitivity, tooth pain may be caused by other dental problems, but is very often associated with the need for a root canal. In particular, if the pain lingers, as opposed to immediately dissipating, the tooth likely needs endodontic treatment. Additionally, pain that comes on spontaneously without the presence of any stimuli is often associated with the need for a root canal. The discomfort may even come on in the middle of the night and require medication for relief. Finally, if the pain you have seems to radiate to other parts of your mouth it may indicate the tooth’s nerve has been damaged. The pain may come and go, but ultimately will not go away without a root canal.

 

3. Inflamed Gums.

If the dying nerve becomes infected, you may notice inflamed gum tissue near the tooth. A bump may also appear above the tooth as the body sends white cells to fight the infection. Your dentist will drain the infection and perform a root canal to alleviate the problem and symptoms.

 

Though the thought of a root canal may not be pleasant, the problem left untreated will only get worse. Your dentist is well trained in making the procedure as painless as possible and once the nerve is removed you will no longer have any pain.

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