How should you know if you need a root canal procedure?
How should you know if you need a root canal procedure? Are there warning signs? Sometimes, there are noticeable signs such as a cavity or severe toothache. In contrast, the problem is not evident because it takes a professional dentist to know what signs to search for before it worsens. However, regular preventative care visits can help you avoid root canals altogether. If you suspect a problem with one or more of your teeth, don’t ignore the signs of a possible root canal.
A Cracked or Chipped Tooth
Most chipped and cracked teeth occur because of an accident or biting on something hard. Even the tiniest crack or chip is enough to allow harmful bacteria into the inner part of your tooth to cause decay gradually and set up an infection. You may need root canal therapy if you are looking for treatment for a chipped or cracked tooth right away.
Ongoing Toothache
Obviously, toothache is a significant sign that you might need a root canal. But the truth is, not all types of tooth pain signify that you need a root canal, so it can be hard during the early stages of an issue to know if better oral hygiene efforts can help. It’s vital to remember that tooth pain rarely goes away on its own, and you must visit a dentist to address the underlying problem that is causing the pain.
Swelling
Swelling doesn’t always indicate that you need root canal surgery. However, swelling of the face and jaw is one of the most prevalent signs of infection in a tooth. This could mean tooth decay has spread to the gums around the root of the tooth. Chances are, you have formed a dental abscess that a root canal treatment can clear and antibiotics to fight the infection.
Bump on the Gum
A pimple-like bump on your gum can indicate a serious infection in the area of your tooth where the sensitive inner layer contains arteries and nerve endings. This results in pus forming around the tooth root. You may also experience symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, facial swelling, and a fever.
Reasons for Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment is necessary when the soft tissue in the interior of the root canal is inflamed or infected. There is a host of reasons why you may need root canal treatment:
- Repeated dental procedures on the tooth
- Deep decay
- Faulty crown
- Crack or chip in the tooth
With proper care, most teeth that have received root canal treatment can last a lifetime.
Transform Your Smile with Annapolis Dental Care
Whether it’s a regular check-up you need or a tooth extracted, your dentist in Annapolis is here to serve! Annapolis Dental Care has the expertise and compassion to work with you on improving your oral health. Your comfort and health are our top priorities, and so we go above and beyond to make our patients happy and give them the highest quality care. Please give us a call at 410-267-0766 or visit us online. For more oral health tips for you and your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube! We are always looking for new patients, so if you live in Arnold, Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, MD, come on down!