How do you know if you need a root canal? If you’re sitting in your office chair at work with a searing toothache that won’t go away, you’re probably searching what the symptoms of tooth infections are on the computer. Knowing what signs to look out for and why it’s important to act quickly could be the difference between saving and losing a tooth. Read on to learn about the ins-and-outs of root canal therapy and how to tell if you need the treatment.
What are Signs and Symptoms You Need a Root Canal?
The pulp is the inner portion of your tooth that contains soft tissue, blood vessels, and thousands of nerves. When it becomes aggravated and attacked by harmful oral bacteria, it can result in a severe toothache that can wake you up at night and keep you from being able to focus at work. This is one of the most common signs that you need a root canal. Some other symptoms to look out for include:
- Swollen and tender gums near the damaged tooth.
- A pimple-like bump on the gums near the damaged tooth.
- Discoloration or a grey-like color of the tooth.
- Extreme prolonged sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
Without timely treatment, tooth infections can spread to other teeth and even to other parts of your body by travelling through the bloodstream. To avoid this, it’s important to visit your emergency dentist as soon as you notice any of these symptoms.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is straightforward and usually completed in a single visit to your dentist. Before the treatment, they’ll numb the area near your damaged tooth using a local anesthetic. Once you can’t feel a thing, they’ll access the inner chamber of your tooth where the pulp is housed and remove and sanitize it, making sure that no bacteria are left to cause further damage. They’ll then seal off the tooth completely with a filling. Most patients also need a dental crown to protect and restore the shape and function of their treated tooth, so if this is the case for your situation, you may have to visit your dentist for a second time to have the crown placed.
Are Root Canals Painful?
One of the most common dental myths is that root canals are a painful procedure. With the latest advancements in dental technology and tools, this is not the case. Your dentist will make sure that you feel absolutely no pain during the procedure. Afterward, you may experience some tenderness or soreness, but that will go away once the area has completely healed, and you’ll no longer have to endure a severe toothache.
If your dentist informs you that you need a root canal, now you have no reason to worry. It’s a pain-free treatment that allows you to preserve your natural smile and avoid the more invasive and costly alternative of having the tooth extracted. With the right team of professionals by your side, you’ll get your oral health completely restored and be able to enjoy your treated tooth for the rest of your life.
About the Author
Dr. Luke Lumpkin has been practicing dentistry for over 10 years. Over that time, he has remained an active member of professional organizations including the American Dental Association and Academy of General Dentistry. Using the latest techniques and technology in his office, he’s able to provide his patients with high-quality dental care that relieves their pain and restores their oral health. For questions or to schedule an emergency appointment if you’re experiencing a severe toothache, visit Dentistry by Design’s website or call 918-336-6777.