Are you experiencing persistent tooth discomfort?
Do you notice swelling or tenderness in your gums? Or have you noticed that all of the treatments that you have had for dental sensitivity have not worked?
These could all be indicators that you need a root canal.
A root canal is an endodontic dental procedure which involves removing or partially removing infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth.
And while this is not a popular dental procedure, it is exceedingly efficient at what it does.
So, here are 5 signs that you may need a root canal performed.
Persistent dental discomfort
If you have a dental discomfort that just won’t go away, it could be a sign that you need a root canal. The sensation may be sharp or dull, and it may be constant or appear intermittently. It may be felt when biting down or when applying pressure to the affected tooth. If you’re experiencing any kind of dental pain, it’s important to see your dentist in Parramatta as soon as possible.
Sensitivity to temperature changes
If you experience soreness or sensitivity when consuming hot or cold food and drink, this could signify that you need to have a root canal fitted. This sensitivity may occur even after the hot or cold item has been removed from your mouth. This is because the damaged pulp inside the tooth is exposed to temperature changes and is causing pain or sensitivity.
Swelling in the gums
Swelling or tenderness on the gum around the affected tooth is another sign that you may need a root canal. The swelling may be accompanied by redness, and you may notice a purple or blue pimple-like bump on the gum, which is tender to the touch. This can be a sign that the tooth is infected and that the infection is spreading to the surrounding tissue.
Discolouration of the tooth
If you spot that one of your teeth has become discoloured, it could be a sign that you need a root canal. The discolouration may be grey, brown, or black, and it may occur gradually over time. This is because the pulp inside the tooth is dying, and the tooth is no longer receiving what it needs from the bloodstream to stay alive.
Loose tooth
If one of your teeth feels loose, you will need to see your dental team urgently, potentially to have a root canal fitted. This is because the damaged pulp inside the tooth is causing the surrounding bone to break down. If the root canal is not performed, the tooth could eventually dislodge and fall out or need to be extracted.
Why have a root canal?
A root canal will save your tooth from being extracted and prevent the infection from spreading to other teeth or to the rest of your body. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so you should not experience any pain during the procedure. After the root canal, you may experience some discomfort and sensitivity for a few days. Your dental team will provide you with instructions on how to care for your tooth after the procedure. In most cases, a crown or filling will be placed on the tooth to protect it and restore its function.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
