Dental health plays a crucial role in our overall well-being, and when issues arise, it’s important to address them as quickly as possible. One common dental procedure that people are often concerned about is a root canal. But what exactly is a root canal, and how do you know if you need one.
What is a root canal
A root canal is a dental procedure in which decay in the pulp and root of your tooth is cleaned out. Dental pulp consists of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue and is located in the core of your tooth. When decay reaches the core, the pulp can become infected or inflamed, so the decay needs to be cleaned out to prevent further decay and preserve your tooth.
Signs you need a root canal
There are some important signs that can indicate that a root canal is in your future. However, remember that these signs can also point to other issues besides a root canal, so visit your dentist to make sure.
Pain
One of the most common signs that you may need a root canal is persistent tooth pain. The pain might hurt at all times or come and go. You also might feel the pain in the bone of your tooth, your face, your jaw, or in other teeth. It’s important not to dismiss ongoing discomfort, as it could be indicative of a deeper issue within the tooth.
Tooth Discoloration
A tooth that has become darker than the surrounding teeth may signal the need for a root canal. A grayish-black discoloration can result from tooth trauma or the breakdown of internal tissue that damages the roots.
Swollen gums
Swelling in the gums around a specific tooth can be another sign of an underlying issue that requires root canal treatment. This swelling may come and go, be painful when touched, or be painless.
Bumps on gums
Another sign that a tooth needs root canal treatment is the presence of a pimple-like bump on the gums, known as an abscess or gum boil. This bump may even ooze pus due to the tooth infection, which can give you an unpleasant taste or cause your breath to smell bad.
Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold, food, or touch
If you experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that is prolonged or consistent, it might be a sign of dental trouble. Sensitivity when touched or when you eat could also be a sign that you need to see your dentist to confirm if you need a root canal.
Chipped or cracked tooth
A chipped or cracked tooth can cause bacteria to come into the tooth and cause infection, which can then lead to needing a root canal. Even an injury to the tooth can cause nerve damage to the tooth that needs a root canal, so be mindful of any damage you may have had to your tooth.
Loose teeth
Another significant indication that you might need a root canal is if you have a loose tooth. This is because nerve death can cause acidic waste products to soften the bone around a dying tooth’s root and make it more mobile. If you have multiple teeth that are loose, this may be caused by another issue besides needing a root canal, but you should visit your dentist to confirm.
Benefits of timely intervention:
Being in tune with what’s happening in your body is one of the best ways to correct an issue like tooth decay early. There are many reasons why you’d want to do this.
- Pain Relief: A tooth with decay to the point of needing a root canal is often painful, so one of the primary benefits of a root canal is the pain relief that comes with it.
- Preservation of natural tooth: A root canal allows for the preservation of your natural tooth. A missing tooth can also lead to jawbone decay, so protecting your natural tooth is very important.
- Prevention of spread of infection: Dental infections can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated, leading to issues with the rest of your teeth. Timely intervention can prevent this from happening.
- Protect your overall health: Tooth decay affects your entire oral health and is even linked to other conditions like heart disease and diabetes. So, don’t ignore the problem!
Visit Dr. Ruiz & Associates, Inc in Burbank, CA
Knowing when you might need a root canal is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. If you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain, sensitivity, swelling, or other concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult with a dentist. If you’re in the Burbank, Toluca Lake, and Studio City area in CA, then come visit our dentist office in Burbank, CA!
At Dr. Ruiz & Associates, we use Supra-gingival dentistry which means, “above the gums dentistry.” Dr. Ruiz is a renowned dentist known as the pioneer of this form of minimally invasive dental procedures that not only protect soft oral tissues, making it a healthier form of dentistry, but also produce beautiful and long-lasting results. Check out our Google reviews and make an appointment at our office.
