When is a Root Canal Needed? Check Complete Guide by First Point Dental

Root canals are the narrow openings of the roots of the teeth comprising the blood vessels and nerve fibers that provide the blood supply, nutrition, and sensation to the teeth. When a tooth gets severely decayed or infected or badly injured, it can only be saved for a lifetime by removing the infected or damaged pulp present within the tooth, filling the treated root canal, and sealing it with gutta-percha.

Many patients who are suffering from the early stages of the problem, find it difficult to figure out whether oral-hygiene practices can address the dental concern or if dental work like a dental filling or a root canal is needed. A dental professional can help one get out of this dilemma as many of the signs of the dental issue can only be determined by a dentist. This is why it's recommended to go for regular dental check-ups to avoid the problem getting escalated.

How To Know When A Root Canal Is Needed?

To make it easier for you to self-identify your oral concern and appropriate treatment choice, here are some signs of a root canal treatment that you must know:

1. Persistent Pain

An extremely aching tooth is the main indicator that there is a problem with tooth roots. When pain is felt by one while eating or drinking and one is having trouble doing normal routine activities, it’s time to see a dentist who might recommend a root canal treatment.  

2. Sensitivity to Extreme Temperatures

If the tooth starts to ache dull and eventually progresses into sharp, intolerable pain after coming in contact with any hot or cold food and drinks, then one might need to undergo root canal therapy.

3. Chipped or Cracked Tooth

Some people get their teeth chipped or cracked because of injury from contact sports, eating hard foods, or the ill effects of previous dental procedures. When this happens, the nerves of the tooth pulp get exposed and result in an infection that’s spreadable. In such a case, a root canal might be needed to prevent further pain and infection.

4. Prolonged Tooth Sensitivity

When pressure is put on the tooth, the patient gets hurt and that sensitivity lasts for several weeks or even months without getting better, it could typically be because of the damaged tooth root. A root canal treatment can help in getting rid of this pain and sensitivity.

5. Deep Tooth Decay

When the bacterial infection has set in the innermost region of the tooth, the only way to repair and save the tooth is a root canal.

6. Inflammation of the Gums

If the gums are swollen and painful or there is a raised bump on them, sometimes a root canal may solve the issue.

7. Dark Discoloration of the Tooth

A tooth may get discolored because of poor oral hygiene, exposure of the tooth to staining food and drinks, or nerve damage underneath the surface of the tooth. When dentists find the nerves and blood vessels of the tooth getting damaged, they recommend a root canal.

Suffering from these issues and want to achieve an improved oral health? Book a visit now at First Point Dental Clinic, best root canal treatment clinic in Chicago.