Most people rate the pain associated with a root canal as unforgettable. It can be pretty hard to carry on with your day-to-day activities when your tooth is infested with bacteria. However, if you can spot the signs of tooth decay before things get worse, you might be able to save yourself a lot of pain. For an in-depth look at all the signs indicating you need a root canal, carry on reading this blog.
Signs You Need A Root Canal
The reason you need a root canal in the first place is all because of the harmful bacteria lingering in your mouth. Although it’s when the bacteria eat through your tooth’s enamel and reaches the pulp, is when things can get dangerous. This is because there’s a chance for the bacteria to severely damage your tooth nerves or even cling to the surrounding teeth. As a result, you could end up losing your tooth completely.
To prevent this from happening, keep an eye out for the following signs that can help you find out if you need a root canal or not.
1. Unbearable Pain
Typically you can tell something is wrong when your tooth constantly starts hurting. Rather than brushing away the pain, take note of it and let your dentist know.
2. Tooth Discoloration
When the bacteria start munching on your tooth, they leave behind a very obvious discoloration in their path. So, if your tooth suddenly has specks of black or brown on it and they gradually get bigger, it might be time to get it checked.
3. Extreme Tooth Sensitivity
Everyone experiences sensitivity when they eat/drink something super hot or cold. However, if you can’t stop cringing in pain every time you eat slightly hot or cold food, there may be something wrong.
4. Dental Abscess
Usually, you can tell your tooth is in need of help when a bump appears beneath it. This pimple is filled with pus and indicates that your body is on the verge of fighting off an infection.
5. Facial Swelling
A side effect of the abscess facial swelling gives away the fact that the bacteria is advancing and has reached a critical state. The abscess can even infect your lymph nodes, causing your neck to swell up.
6. Inability to Eat
If you can’t bring yourself to get through a single meal because it hurts too much to chew, the problem might lie within the bacteria-ridden tooth.
7. Swollen Gums
Besides the bump growing on your gums, there may also be slight swelling of the area surrounding the affected tooth. If the swelling persists and doesn’t go away in due time, let a dental professional have a look.
8. Cracked or Broken Tooth
Since the bacteria eat away at your tooth enamel, it’s common to find your tooth dented or bits and pieces of it broken off. This is among the most prominent signs you need a root canal.
9. Gum Discoloration
Besides your tooth changing color, your gums are also prone to discoloration. The reason behind this is the bacteria reaching inside your gums and contaminating the tissues surrounding the affected tooth.
Consult A Dental Expert Today!
If you identify with any of the symptoms mentioned above, it might be a sign you need a root canal. For detailed evaluations and diagnosis, contact Signature Smiles. You can call or visit us at any of the following locations:
Irving Location: 3654 N Belt Line Rd, Irving, TX 75062, United States
Contact Number: (214) 307-4715
Plano Location: 5072 W Plano Pkwy Suite 270, Plano, TX 75093, United States
Contact Number: (214) 307-4755