Have you been asking yourself, “Do I need a root canal?” Maybe you are experiencing tooth pain, or perhaps you’ve noticed changes to the appearance of your tooth. Whatever your symptoms, understanding when you might need a root canal can help you seek the dental care you require before symptoms worsen.
At Signature Smile Arts, we proudly provide patients with world-class dental care. If you experience any of the following signs, call us at (708) 799-5353 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Shore and his team.
1. Persistent Tooth Pain
Persistent tooth pain may indicate that you need a root canal. This pain can range from mild to intense and might be constant or intermittent. You might feel it deep in the tooth or radiating to your jaw, face, or other teeth.
Pain that worsens when you chew or apply pressure to the tooth is particularly concerning. Persistent tooth pain can indicate infection or inflammation in the tooth’s pulp, which may require a root canal to treat effectively.
2. Sensitivity to Temperature
If your tooth is sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, this can indicate that a root canal is needed. Sharp, lingering pain when consuming hot or chilled food and beverages could be a sign of infection or damage to the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels.
This sensitivity, especially when it lasts for an extended period, suggests that the pulp inside your tooth is compromised, necessitating a root canal.
3. Tender or Swollen Gums
Swollen or tender areas on the gums can indicate that a root canal is neede. Swelling around a tooth can occur with or without pain and may be accompanied by a small bump, called a dental abscess.
An abscess is a clear sign of infection, and if left untreated, it can spread to other areas of the mouth and even into the bloodstream, causing severe health complications. However, with timely dental care, these complications can be prevented.
4. Darkening or Discoloration of the Tooth
A tooth that becomes discolored or darkened over time can indicate that its pulp has been damaged or is dying. Trauma to the tooth, repeated dental procedures, or deep decay can cause this discoloration.
While not all darkened teeth need a root canal, it is a sign that should not be ignored. Your dentist can assess the damage and let you know whether or not your tooth requires a root canal.
5. Cracked or Chipped Tooth
Cracks or chips can expose a tooth’s inner pulp to bacteria, leading to infection. If you have a cracked or chipped tooth and experience pain, sensitivity, or swelling, it’s crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible.
Even if the damage seems minor, it can create an entry point for bacteria, potentially necessitating a root canal to prevent further complications.
Do I Need a Root Canal?
If you experience persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, swollen or tender gums, darkening of a tooth, or a cracked or chipped tooth, don’t hesitate to contact Signature Smile Arts.
Our team, led by Dr. Shore, provides exceptional dental care to patients throughout the Homewood, Illinois, area. Call (708) 799-5353 or contact us online to schedule an appointment today. Your dental health is our priority, and we are here to help you achieve a pain-free, healthy smile.
