Root canals are one of the most common and misunderstood dental procedures, but they’re also one of the most effective ways to save a natural tooth. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort, it may be time to visit your general dentist to see if a root canal is needed. Here are five signs you might need a root canal.

     A common symptom that often indicates the need for a root canal is persistent tooth pain. Unlike the occasional sensitivity that fades quickly, this pain lingers or intensifies over time. It may hurt when you chew or apply pressure to the affected tooth. If you find that the pain is keeping you up at night or worsens with certain movements like biting, it’s time to see your general dentist for a referral.

This pain occurs when the nerve or pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed. A root canal removes the infected tissue, relieving the pain and preserving your tooth.

     Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures can be a warning sign of nerve damage. If you experience a sharp pain when drinking hot coffee or eating ice cream, it might be because the nerve inside the tooth is inflamed or infected. Unlike typical sensitivity, which disappears once the hot or cold substance is removed, root canal pain persists long after the stimulus is gone.

You may also notice that the sensitivity lasts longer than it used to. The more prolonged and intense the discomfort, the more likely it is that a root canal is necessary.

     Swelling or tenderness in the gums surrounding a tooth can indicate infection. If you notice a small pimple-like bump on your gums near a painful tooth, it could be an abscess. Abscesses form as a result of bacterial infections that can spread from the tooth’s pulp to the gums. This condition requires prompt attention from your general dentist, who can refer you to an endodontist for treatment.

In some cases, swollen gums may also be accompanied by bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth, further signaling the need for a root canal.

     If your tooth has become darker than the surrounding teeth, it may indicate an infection or dying nerve inside the tooth. When the blood vessels and nerves in the pulp are damaged or infected, the tooth can lose its color and become discolored. This discoloration is often one of the first signs that the tooth is in trouble.

Darkening can also occur if a tooth has experienced trauma, causing internal damage. A root canal can save the tooth and restore its functionality, avoiding the need for an extraction.

     A small pimple-like bump on your gums near a painful tooth may be an abscess, a sign of infection inside the tooth. This condition occurs when pus from an infected tooth drains through the gums. While this can relieve pressure temporarily, it’s not a long-term solution and requires immediate attention.

     Abscesses are often accompanied by pain, and if left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of your body, causing serious complications. If you notice an abscess, contact your general dentist immediately. They can refer you to Afton Endodontics to address the underlying issue.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to see your general dentist as soon as possible. They can help diagnose the issue and refer you to Afton Endodontics for specialized care if a root canal is necessary.