A root canal cleans out decay in your tooth’s root and pulp. Your teeth have an outer enamel layer, a second dentin layer, and a soft inner core extending into your jawbone’s root that consists of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. When decay enters the core, the pulp can become inflamed, infected, or dead. So, what are the signs that you might need a root canal? Olney Dental is here to inform you.
Constant Pain
Pain that never ceases is a telltale indicator that a root canal is necessary. If tooth pain bothers you persistently or it goes away but returns, you should seek immediate attention. You might feel the pain deep in your tooth’s bone. You might also experience referred irritation in your face, jaw, or other teeth. Tooth pain is also the result of other causes such as:
- Gum Disease
- Cavities
- Pain from a Sinus Infection or Other Issue
- A Damaged Filling
- An Infected and Impacted Tooth
However, you’ll never know unless you see a dentist. An early diagnosis and treatment plan leads to a better outcome.
Tooth Sensitivity
If your tooth hurts when you drink or eat cold or hot things, you might need a root canal. Pay attention if you feel a dull ache or sharp pain that lingers for a long time, even after you’ve stopped eating or drinking. Blood vessels or nerves in your tooth could be infected or damaged.
Tooth Discoloration
Tooth trauma or deteriorating internal tissue can damage the roots, giving the tooth a grayish-black appearance. Infected tooth pulp could lead to discoloration. When there is an inadequate blood supply, tooth pulps can die. A root canal resolves this issue. However, tooth discoloration can also have other causes. A dentist can clarify the problem.
Swollen Gums
Swollen gums come from acidic waste products (diets heavy in meat, fried foods, soft drinks, and sweets) and dead pulp tissues—a healthy diet matters when you care about your dental health. Also, pay attention to gum boils or an abscess.
Chipped, Cracked, or Loose Teeth
Teeth cracked or chipped in an accident or teeth that feel loser cause bacteria to settle in, leading to inflammation and infection. Even tooth injury without cracks or chips can damage the tooth’s nerves. Therefore, when you experience an injury, you don’t want to delay treatment.
It’s time to schedule an appointment at Only Dental if one or more of these signs apply to you.
You Can Trust Olney Dental for All of Your Oral Care Needs
For all of your oral care questions and concerns, Olney dental has the expertise and professionalism to get them the answers they need. Olney Dental is ready to supply you with expert service in a professional environment. Schedule an appointment online today! For more information on how we can give your family the best dentist experience available, give us a call at (301) 250-1057 or contact us online. For more dental tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Pinterest.