Knowing if a root canal suits you is like figuring out whether you need a dental filling. During the initial stages of the dental problem, it can be complicated to determine which dental procedure is necessary. This is because most signs can only be identified by a professional dentist.
Physical symptoms typically don’t appear until the issue has become advanced. Therefore, it is advisable to visit your dentist regularly. A root canal can help repair or save a badly affected, infected, or decayed tooth. When the pulp of your tooth is damaged, you need to remove it and have your tooth cleaned and sealed.
Here are some of the signs to show that you need a root canal:
Persistent Pain
Pain is among the most common indicators of something wrong with your tooth. You should consider seeing your dentist immediately if you experience discomfort or pain when taking meals.
The dentist will evaluate your tooth to check if your blood vessels and nerves have been infected. These infections may not be fixed by taking antibiotics, so your dentist may opt to do a root canal to relieve the pain.
Cracked or Chipped Tooth
When your tooth is cracked, it exposes the nerves and leads to an infection. The infection can then spread to the root. A cracked or chipped tooth requires a root canal to prevent more pain and infection.
Tooth Sensitivity
Another common indicator that you may need a root canal is sensitivity. You may have to reach out to your dentist if your tooth aches when you take a hot drink such as coffee or tea.
Cold drinks and foods can also cause severe pain for people with an infected tooth. If your tooth sensitivity persists, your dentist may recommend a root canal.
Swollen Gums
A swollen gum area signifies issues beneath the tooth’s surface. If your gums are swollen, your dentist can evaluate your teeth to ascertain whether inflammation has caused the issue. A root canal can help solve the problem, particularly if it can’t be fixed with other treatment options.
Tooth Decay
Once deep tooth decay sets in within your mouth’s base, no amount of rinsing, flossing, or brushing can fix the problem. When a cavity has been left untreated for too long, it spreads to the root or nerve. In such cases, a root canal can be a suitable remedy before the patient considers getting a crown.
Get Help from FLO Dentistry
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should visit a dentist to determine whether a root canal is necessary. At FLO Dentistry, we have a team of experienced dentists ready to assist you with any dental health needs.
Contact us online or call us at (713) 893-5526 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Omar Amin, our lead dentist. He has performed numerous examinations, root canals, and cosmetic procedures, helping patients regain their attractive smiles.