When Is a Root Canal Necessary? 8 Signs You Need a Root Canal​​​​​​​

According to the American Association of orthodontists, millions of patients have root canals. Most people ignore dental issues because of busy schedules. When you finally have the time to see your dentist, he or she breaks the news that you need a root canal. Knowing the signs that you need a root canal can help you prepare for the procedure. If you want to understand the signs that lead to a root canal, here’s what you should know:

 

Tooth Sensitivity

You have tooth sensitivity if you feel a sharp, sudden pain while consuming hot or cold drinks and food. This type of pain is usually short. It lasts for as long as you drink or eat. You will know if you need a root canal if the pain lasts long after eating or drinking.

 

Intense Pain

You must tell your dentist about any dental pain. Each time you feel pain in your mouth, you feel conscious of it. Pain that strikes all of a sudden is a type of pain that you should tell your dentist. If it is like a wave, you may have a dead or infected tooth that needs a root canal procedure. Your dentist will assess whether your tooth or gums hurt more. You should also tell your dentist if you have pressure on your face or tooth whenever you bend or lie down.

 

Bumpy Lesions on the Gums

Pimple-like bumps do not belong on the gum area and are a common sign that your tooth needs a root canal. These bumpy lesions, or fistula, can sometimes erupt and release yellowish fluid, or pus, which usually gives off a bitter taste. A fistula forms if your tooth infection or abscess does not have anywhere else to go. It results from an injury, a complication of dental surgery, or improper oral hygiene.

 

Gum and Tooth Darkening

Your gums and teeth may also darken. Gums darken because the gum tissue has decayed already. A tooth darkens when the infection has reached the dental root. A root canal allows your dentist to remove the dark tooth material. Then the dentist will place a dental crown over the tooth to improve its appearance.

 

Gum Swelling

Swelling in your gums may be a sign of dental infection. This is different from the gum swelling that you experience after flossing or brushing. Your gums will be painful and tender, and the swelling persists. Such conditions are caused by a periodontal infection.

 

Tooth Damage

A cracked or chipped tooth is a sign that you may need a root canal soon. When trauma on your tooth results in chipping or cracking, it may need a root canal. The trauma itself can cause swelling or a pulp infection. The damage may also result from the brittleness of the dead tooth. A root canal can save your tooth.

 

If you are experiencing any of these signs, you should go to your dentist for a root canal. At Arlington Dentistry By Design, we encourage our patients to keep their routine dental appointments. That way, they will know if they already need a root canal or any other dental treatment. Please visit our clinic in Arlington, Virginia, for a one-on-one consultation.

Learn more about root canal treatment packages, contact Arlington Dentistry By Design in Arlington, VA at (703) 997-7800 to set up an appointment.