Tooth pain disrupting your day? Sensitivity to hot coffee or ice cream keeping you up at night? While some dental discomforts can be minor, others may indicate something more serious, like the need for a root canal. Here are 5 common signs you might need a root canal:
- Persistent tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- Sensitivity to hot and cold that lingers even after the temperature changes
- Swollen or tender gums around a specific tooth
- Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth
Modern root canal treatments are more advanced, comfortable, and effective than ever, allowing patients to restore their oral health with minimal stress. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, scheduling a dental exam is the first step toward relief and peace of mind.
1. Persistent Tooth Pain That Won’t Go Away
Tooth pain can feel overwhelming, especially when it seems like it will never go away. Persistent pain is one of the clearest signs that something could be wrong with your tooth’s pulp.
This discomfort might feel sharp and stabbing, or it could be a constant throbbing ache. It often worsens when eating, brushing teeth, or biting down. The pain could indicate inflamed or infected dental pulp, something your dentist can only diagnose.
If the pain has been ongoing and doesn’t improve, it might be time to consider a root canal.
2. Sensitivity to Hot & Cold Foods or Drinks
Ever sipped on steaming tea or indulged in a frosty milkshake, only to feel a sharp twinge in one tooth? Sensitivity to hot or cold foods is another common symptom of a deeper tooth problem.
If the sensation lingers even after you’ve stopped eating or drinking, this could mean nerve damage inside your tooth. Healthy teeth typically recover from temperature shocks quickly, but damaged ones won’t. Prolonged sensitivity is worth checking with your dentist.
3. Swollen or Tender Gums Around a Tooth
Swelling around a specific tooth is often a red flag for infection. The gums might appear red, puffy, or feel tender when touched. This could indicate that decay has reached the root of the tooth, spreading the infection to the surrounding tissue.
Swollen gums may also occur alongside other symptoms, like pain or changes in the tooth’s colour.
4. Darkening or Discoloration of the Tooth
Has one of your teeth suddenly darkened or changed colour? This might not just be staining. A greyish or blackened tooth may signal the damage of the pulp inside.
When blood flow is disrupted due to infection or injury, the tooth can lose its healthy, white appearance. Though you might think this is purely aesthetic, discolouration is often a sign of damage requiring urgent attention.
5. A Pimple-Like Bump on the Gums
A small bump, often described as “pimple-like,” may appear on the gums near the problem tooth. This bump, known as a dental abscess, is a key sign of infection. It forms as pus tries to drain from the infected area.
While the bump may not always hurt, ignoring it can lead to serious complications if the infection spreads.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
Hearing “root canal” might make some people squirm, but modern dentistry has transformed it into a straightforward procedure. During a root canal, your dentist will:
- Numb the area: You’ll receive a local anesthetic to help make the process as comfortable as possible.
- Remove the infection: The infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth is carefully removed.
- Clean and seal: The inside of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed with a special material to prevent further infection.
- Add a crown (if needed): For added strength, a crown may be placed over the tooth once the root canal is complete.
How to Prevent Tooth Infections & Root Canals
Good oral care habits make a big difference in keeping your teeth healthy. Here are some simple steps you can take to reduce your risk of infections:
- Brush twice daily: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush to clean your teeth and gums effectively.
- Floss daily: Flossing removes food particles and bacteria from areas your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Routine check-ups help catch problems early before they lead to severe infections.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks: Reduce sugar consumption to lower your risk of cavities.
- Wear a mouthguard: Protect your teeth from cracks and injuries during physical activities or if you grind your teeth at night.
When to See a Dentist for Tooth Pain
If you’re experiencing any signs mentioned above, don’t wait, they won’t resolve on their own. Plus, the sooner you address the problem, the easier the treatment tends to be. Professional evaluation is key to determining if a root canal is necessary, or if the issue can be fixed with less extensive treatment. Work with your dentist to create a plan for your oral health.
If you’re concerned about tooth pain or want to learn more about our services, book an appointment with Markham Dental Smiles. Your oral health is our priority, and we’re dedicated to helping you feel at ease every step of the way.
