A root canal procedure is used to treat the infection or inflammation that might occur inside your tooth. This treatment helps in restoring the structural integrity of the tooth and prevents further damage. But how will you recognize the signs that you might need a root canal?
Knowing the symptoms that indicate the need for a root canal can be difficult during the early stages since physical symptoms don’t usually start until the problem worsens. Early decay can only be detected by expert dentists, which is why you must visit your dentist regularly.
Several identifiable symptoms can inform you of the telltale signs that you might need a root canal. Let’s look at the causes behind a root canal infection and how you can recognize the need for this treatment.
What Usually Causes a Root Canal Infection?
The primary reason behind a root canal infection is always the penetration of bacteria into the inner pulp of your tooth. When your tooth pulp gets infected, the bacteria begin multiplying inside your tooth and start infecting your tooth’s root. Recognizing the signs that you might need a root canal treatment and getting the procedure is the best way to treat this infection.
A root canal infection can also be caused due to other reasons, which may include:
- A damaged or cracked tooth that opens the way and allows bacteria to enter
- Dental decay that allows bacteria to penetrate the pulp
- A knocked-out tooth that enables bacteria to enter the tooth pulp
- Abnormal tooth anatomy that can help bacteria infect the soft tissue of your tooth
- Repeated dental treatments on the same tooth
The main reason behind a root canal infection is usually decay or caries that damage the tooth and allow bacteria entry inside your tooth pulp. Timely identification of tooth decay is, therefore, necessary to eliminate the decay and reduce the risk of signs that you might need a root canal treatment.
7 Signs You Need a Root Canal For Your Tooth Infection
The only way to know for sure whether you need a root canal is by visiting your dentist. But there are some warning signs that you can look out for and notice signs that point toward needing a root canal.
Persistent Pain
Persistent pain is one of the foremost signs that you might need a root canal. You may feel a deep pain in your tooth or experience referred pain in your jawbone, face, or surrounding teeth. If you are facing trouble doing normal activities such as eating or drinking without experiencing pain, visit your dentist as soon as possible.
Sensitivity to Heat or Cold
Do you get a stinging sensation in your teeth when you eat or drink something extremely hot or cold? This might start off as a dull ache and progress into a sharp, intense pain.
Cold or hot foods and beverages can cause a lot of sensitivity in your infected tooth due to damaged blood vessels and nerve endings. This sensitivity may be an indication that you need a root canal treatment.
Swollen Gum Area
Swollen gums near the infected tooth indicate an underlying problem, the solution to which might be a root canal treatment. The swelling in your gums may come and go; your gums may also be tender to the touch. You might also have a little pimple on your gum, referred to as a gum boil, that may ooze pus from the infection in the tooth.
An infected tooth pulp can cause tooth discoloration, which is a direct result of the breakdown of your tooth’s internal tissue. A discolored tooth may have a grayish-black appearance. It is a good idea to visit your dentist if you notice a tooth that is discolored.
Bad Breath & Unpleasant Taste
Bad breath accompanied by an unpleasant taste in your mouth can also be among the signs that you might need a root canal. These symptoms may indicate an infection in your tooth that needs to be treated. Visit the dentist if you have persistent bad breath that doesn’t seem to go away no matter how often you brush your teeth.
A Chipped or Cracked Tooth
Eating hard foods, chewing on hard objects, or playing sports can put you at risk of chipping or cracking your tooth. A chipped or cracked tooth tends to expose the nerves underneath and allows bacteria to enter the bloodstream, indicating signs that you might need a root canal treatment.
A Loose or Wobbly Tooth
Infected teeth tend to become loose or wobbly, likely because the infection has spread around the tooth and weakened the surrounding tissue. Acidic waste products from tooth nerve death soften the bone around your tooth, causing its loosening.
Why a Root Canal Can be the Best Thing for an Infected Tooth
Recognizing the signs that you might need a root canal treatment and getting the procedure done in a timely manner can be the best thing for an infected tooth. Here’s why.
- Your dentist can prevent the spread of any other infection by ensuring they scrape away all the bacteria during the root canal treatment.
- You will no longer feel tooth pain from the infection or the need to take painkillers to eliminate the pain.
- Recognizing the signs that you might need a root canal and getting the treatment can stop the formation of a tooth abscess.
- The root canal treatment will restore your ability to eat, chew, and drink properly.
- A timely root canal can help you save your tooth and keep your complete smile intact.
- Undergoing root canal therapy will save your neighboring teeth from the previously spreading infection.
- Getting a root canal before the problem gets worse helps you avoid spending money on tooth extraction, artificial teeth, dental implants, or other tooth restoration options.
Top Tips to Avoid A Root Canal Treatment Altogether
It is true that knowing the signs that tell you that you might need a root canal can save a severely infected tooth. But wouldn’t it be a better idea to avoid the infection in the first place?
Here are our top tips that can help you avoid a root canal treatment altogether.
Brush Your Teeth: Make sure to clean your pearly whites at least twice a day for two minutes, and don’t forget to include cleaning your gums, tongue, and inner cheeks.
Avoid Hard Food & Objects: Avoid eating hard foods and chewing on hard objects to prevent cracks in your teeth, as this can allow bacteria to enter your inner tooth pulp.
Floss: Make it a point to floss at least once a day to clean the tight gaps and hard-to-reach areas in your oral cavity.
Eat Healthy: Eating healthy and avoiding processed and refined foods can help prevent tooth decay and subsequent root canals. So steer clear of those fruit juices and packaged snacks!
Stop Grinding: Grinding your teeth can actually lead to nerve damage and cracks. If you suffer from bruxism, consult your dentist and adopt useful strategies that help you prevent the same.
Use a Mouthguard: Wear a mouthguard, irrespective of the sport that you are playing, to protect your teeth from damage or injuries that can give bacteria room to fester.
Get Cavities Treated: Untreated cavities only allow the bacteria to multiply and spread, leading to nerve damage and subsequent signs of a root canal. Get those cavities treated in a timely manner and avoid the need for any dental treatment.
Visit the Dentist: Your regular dental checkups and routine cleanings are an opportunity for your dentist to check your teeth or any cavities or infections. Make sure you visit your dentist every six months unless recommended otherwise.
Takeaway
An infection inside your tooth root can cause considerable pain and discomfort. Ignoring the signs that you might need a root canal treatment will only worsen the condition. It is essential that you visit a dentist immediately if you experience any of the signs that indicate that you could benefit from a root canal procedure.
Worried that you might need a root canal treatment? Contact River’s Bend Family Dental today to improve your chances of saving your tooth. Book an appointment with us by calling 763-576-1855.
FAQs
How painful is a root canal?
Painful root canals are a myth. Pain associated with root canals usually refers to the discomfort you feel before getting the actual treatment. During the root canal procedure, you will feel no pain, thanks to the local anesthesia your dentist will administer. Essentially, removing the infection from your tooth through a root canal treatment will remove the pain.
How long do root canals last?
If your tooth receives a root canal treatment followed by a filling and a crown, it can last you around 20 years. A tooth that receives either a crown or a filling after the root canal lasts around 11 years. Your root canal will last for about 6 to 7 years if you receive no restorative work after the treatment.
How do I know if I need a root canal or a dental filling?
A dental filling is recommended when you only experience minor discomfort or sensitivity in your tooth. You could be recommended a root canal treatment if your tooth exhibits signs of severe swelling, high sensitivity to foods and beverages of extreme temperatures, and persistent pain.
What is the cost of a root canal treatment?
The cost of a root canal procedure depends on several factors, including the anatomy and location of your tooth, the severity of your condition, and the kind of dental insurance coverage you have. Your dentist can provide you with an estimate before beginning the treatment. Your dental clinic can also guide you toward suitable financing options or any dental savings plans they offer.
