Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
Millbrae, CA

A root canal is a popular and very practical option for saving a decayed tooth. It might sound intimidating, but it is a highly successful dental solution. 

People often tend to ignore the possibility of a root canal due to anxiety and fear. However, ignoring the signs can lead to much more pain, tooth loss, or even a more serious infection. 

If you recognize the symptoms within time, you can get the necessary treatment on time and avoid further complications.

Here, you will get top signs of root canals and know why you should not ignore them.

Tooth Pain

Persistent tooth pain is one of the most common signs of a root canal. Mild pain might be normal for you, but remember, this pain should not last for weeks or months. 

If you experience pain that is not lessening no matter what you do, it is signaling the need for a root canal. If the pulp inside your tooth becomes inflamed, it presses against the nerves and causes pain.

Sensitivity to Heat and Cold

There can be several reasons behind tooth sensitivity, including root canals. Then how will you know when the need is root canal therapy in Millbrae?

If you feel your tooth is sensitive to extreme temperatures and the sensitivity persists even after you remove the trigger, this can mean the nerve of your tooth is damaged.

Swollen or Tender Gums

 Swelling or tenderness around your painful tooth is another common sign of a root canal. This swelling can be localized in a particular area of your gums. When pus builds up around the infected tooth, it becomes inflamed and leads to swelling. Without the right treatment, this swelling can also spread to your face and neck.  

Tooth Discoloration

If you notice your tooth is discolored, know this might indicate that the pulp inside the tooth is severely damaged. Again, tooth discoloration can result from lots of factors. But when you need a root canal, the pulp will eventually die, and the tooth will be somewhat grayish or brownish in color.

Pain When Biting or Chewing

If you see your tooth is paining with light biting or when you are slightly touching it, it can mean many things. If the pulp inside your tooth is infected, your tooth can be extremely sensitive to your touch or mild biting. In this situation, chewing becomes difficult for you without the proper treatment.

Pimples on the Gums

 Sometimes, an infected tooth can cause small pimple-like lesions on your gums near the tooth. This is also known as a dental abscess. When your body tries to fight off the infection, it releases the pus and forms an abscess. This pus can also lead to bad taste in your mouth. So, be careful of that. 

A Loose Tooth

If your tooth feels loose or wobbly, it can be a sign of serious damage to the inside of your tooth. When pus builds up inside your tooth, it weakens the bone that supports the tooth. As the infection starts to spread, your tooth starts to loosen.

Jaw Pain or Swelling

If you see your jaw is paining, especially in a particular area near the infected tooth, remember it can be an early signal of the root canal. When the infection spreads beyond the tooth to the jaw area and surrounding tissues, everything becomes inflamed and leads to discomfort in your mouth. 

Ignoring the signs of a tooth infection can cost you a lot more in the future. You can lose your tooth completely as well. Understand the early symptoms and seek professional care at the right time. 

Contact us now for an appointment and save your smile.