Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Root canal treatment is used to repair teeth that are infected and badly decayed. During the procedure, the pulp is removed, and the tooth root canalis cleaned and sealed. Dr. Matthew Roper, Dr. Nathan McLaws, and Dr. Matthew Scheerhorn at Ocotillo Trails Family Dentistry in San Tan Valley, AZ, offers a full range of dental services. Here are five signs you may need a root canal.

You have a toothache.

Severe tooth pain upon chewing or application of pressure is a sign that you may need root canal treatment. A root canal is done to eliminate that pain. Root canals are nothing to fear. Your San Tan Valley dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area. Local anesthesia is a type of anesthetic used to prevent pain during treatment. Many people have reported that root canal treatment is no more painful than getting a dental filling.

Cold and hot bother you.

Prolonged sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages is a sign you may need root canal therapy. Tooth sensitivity causes pain when the tooth is exposed to cold and hot temperatures through beverages and foods. Your tooth will no longer be sensitive to cold and hot foods and beverages after the procedure.

Your gums are swollen.

If you have swollen gums, you may need a root canal. The inflammation can range from being slight to pronounced. In severe cases, the inflammation may extend into your face and/or neck. Gum inflammation is often associated with infection, but it doesn’t always mean an infection is present.

You have a bump on your gum.

If you have a pimple-like bump or swollen area on your gum you may need a root canal. The bump may disappear and then come back. This bump is an accumulation of pus, which is associated with infection. Your dentist will treat this by performing a root canal. The bump will not disappear until your dentist repairs your tooth.

You have a discolored tooth.

One discolored tooth is also a sign that a root canal is needed. When the roots of the tooth that requires a root canal have died, the tooth may turn brown, dark yellow, gray, or black. Tooth discoloration can also be caused by injury or damaged dental filling, so visiting a dentist for a checkup is recommended if you have a darkened tooth.If you need a root canal, why wait? We can help you today! Ocotillo Trails Family Dentistry at 480-457-1977 today to schedule a dental appointment in San Tan Valley, AZ. If you need a root canal, don’t wait. Delaying a root canal will only lead to prolonged pain, suffering, and tooth loss.