Five Signs You Might Need A Root Canal 

With today’s technology, root canals are not nearly as painful and invasive as they were back in the day but people still hesitate on asking if they need one. So what are the top five signs that you may need a root canal?

• #1 – Tooth Pain
• #2 – Swollen or Inflamed Gums
• #3 – Tooth Sensitivity
• #4 – Painful Tooth Appears Darker
• #5 – Tiny Bump on Gums

 

Sympton #1—Tooth Pain

The number one symptom of a potential root canal is tooth pain. This pain is not a once-in-a-while occurrence. This is chronic, ongoing tooth pain that is difficult to ignore.

If you experience pain when you chew or when you put any sort of pressure on a certain area of your tooth, that is a good sign that the infected tooth may need a root canal.

 

Symptom #2—Swollen or Inflamed Gums

Are the gums near the source of the pain swollen, red, or showing raised bumps? An infected tooth will usually cause some sort of discomfort in the gum tissue surrounding it. If all the gums are inflamed, that may be a sign of a different issue, like gingivitis.

 

Symptom #3 – Tooth Sensitivity

Do hot or very cold drinks make the area extremely sensitive? That may be a sign that the temperature is affecting the pulp right through micro-fractures in the tooth itself, through the gum or anywhere where tooth decay has compromised the strength of the tooth. Or are you having a significant amount of pain in your tooth without any referable cause? It is likely that your tooth is decayed and your nerves are exposed. You should contact your Dentist or an Endodontist near you. 

 

Symptom #4 – Darker Tooth

If you notice discoloration or darkening of the painful tooth, this could be a sign of infection and/or nerve damage. Usually, the affected tooth will start taking on a grey cast. That would mean it’s time to get examined by an Endodontist to know for sure.

 

Symptom #5 – Tiny Bump on Gums

Do you see a tiny bump on your gums that almost looks like a pimple? This is not normal and this pus-filled ‘boil’ could mean a tooth infection. If this is near where you are experiencing pain, it could mean you need a root canal.

 

If you are experiencing any or all of these signs, it would be wise to consider booking an appointment to see if a root canal could be the solution. Until then, use ice to soothe the irritated area in the mouth and rinse with salt water to keep the area clean, especially after eating and drinking. Our office will be happy to help – contact us here to schedule your consultation!