Root canals are routine procedures that relieve dental discomfort and protect oral and overall health. Many people feel apprehensive about getting a root canal, but today's procedures are gentle and no more trouble than getting a large filling.
You may experience troubling symptoms if you need a root canal. It is also possible to have no symptoms, in which case your dentist will inform you, based on imaging results, that you need a root canal.
Why Do Some Teeth Need Root Canals?
Teeth require root canals when the pulp inside becomes inflamed or infected. The interior tooth infection can cause severe discomfort and interfere with your rest.
If you let a tooth that needs a root canal go too long without treatment, the infection could spread to other teeth and sometimes turn systemic, causing illness.
Signs You May Need A Root Canal
Persistent Tooth Pain
The pain may come and go, but it always returns and does not improve on its own. You may feel more pain when you bite or chew. The pain may feel centered in your jawbone or spread to your jaw, face, or other teeth.
Heat and Cold Sensitivity
If your tooth hurts when you bite into hot food or have a sip of a drink with ice, you may need a root canal. The telltale sign that you need a root canal is that the pain persists after removing the hot or cold food.
Gum Swelling
Your gums may be red or swollen. They may have pimple-like swellings or abscesses.
Tooth Discoloration
When the tooth's pulp becomes inflamed or dies, the tooth will turn gray, then black.
Cracked or Chipped Tooth
You probably need a root canal if you have a chipped, cracked, or broken tooth. When the pulp chamber inside the tooth becomes exposed, saliva and food can contaminate it, causing pain and infection.
Loose Tooth
An infected tooth may loosen and become more mobile.
Benefits of a Root Canal
- Relieves discomfort
- Preserves a natural tooth from extraction by allowing the dentist to place a crown
- Controls infection and keeps it from spreading
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
What is the root canal procedure like for a patient?
Getting a root canal is not difficult. Local anesthesia is usually enough to help patients feel comfortable. You may feel slight discomfort because a root canal procedure takes longer than a standard filling, but it will be manageable.
What if my tooth begins to hurt again after a root canal?
You may need endodontic retreatment. The dentist will reopen the tooth, clean the canals, and reseal it as before. Today's advanced procedures have a higher success rate than root canals of the past.
Call Dentistry of Mendham
If you have any of the symptoms listed above or have questions about root canals, please call our Mendham, NJ, office at 973-543-5700. We can schedule an appointment with Dr. Rajan to evaluate your tooth.