Are you experiencing tooth pain? It could be a sign that you need a root canal procedure from an experienced dentist in Ajax.
How do you know when you need a root canal? Why is it important? We’ll explore these questions and more in our latest blog!
What is a Root Canal?
Occasionally, the pulp of your tooth may become infected by bacteria. This can lead to decay, loss of teeth, serious infection, and bone loss.
A root canal is a dental procedure that addresses a tooth that has become infected. The root canal operates similarly to a mini Roto-Rooter for your teeth – it cleans out the decay and preserves the tooth.
During your root canal procedure, your dentist will do the following:
Extract the bacteria and decay from the tooth pulp, root, and nerve
Disinfect the tooth with an antibiotic
Fill the empty roots
Seal the area to protect against more decay
A root canal procedure will leave your natural tooth in place and protect against further decay. It does, however, leave the tooth more fragile than it had previously been, so root canals are often covered with a dental crown.
Signs You Need a Root Canal
There are several symptoms associated with infected tooth pulp, including:
Persistent Pain
If you are experiencing persistent pain in your tooth, including when you eat or when you touch the tooth, it’s a sign that you may need a root canal.
The pain may be felt in the deep bone of your tooth but may also be felt as referred pain in your face, jaw, or even in other teeth.
Tooth pain can be a symptom of many other problems, so if you do notice pain, you should contact your dentist right away.
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
Are you experiencing pain when you eat warm food or drink a cup of coffee? Or do you feel sensitive when you eat ice cream or even just drink cold water?
This sensitivity may manifest as a dull ache or a sharp pain and can indicate the need for a root canal if it lingers for a long period of time, even when you’ve stopped eating or drinking. If you are experiencing this, that may be a sign you need a root canal.
Tooth Discolouration
Infections in the pulp of your tooth can cause it to discolour.
As the roots and internal tissue of your tooth decay, it can give the tooth a grayish-black appearance. Tooth discolouration can have other causes, so you should call your dentist if you notice your tooth changing colour.
Swollen Gums
If your gums near the painful tooth are swollen, that can indicate that you need a root canal. The swelling is caused by acidic waste products of dead pulp tissues.
You may find that the swelling comes and goes, it may be tender when you touch it, or it may not be painful to the touch. You may also notice a little pimple on your gum, called a gum boil or abscess. It may ooze pus which has an unpleasant taste and gives you bad breath.
Call Durham Dental Centre in Ajax
If you suspect you have an infected tooth or any other dental issue, you can call Durham Dental Centre in Ajax. We offer root canal procedures and other dental operations so you can smile with confidence. Call us today to book an appointment.