If you’ve been feeling a sharp or lingering pain in your tooth, you might be wondering if it’s time for root canal treatment. Many people ignore tooth pain, thinking it will go away on its own. But a toothache can sometimes be a sign that the dental pulp inside your tooth is infected or damaged. Here we will discuss the common signs that you may need root canal therapy, and why seeing a dentist NE Calgary early can save your tooth.
What Is a Root Canal?
Your tooth has a soft tissue inside called the pulp. This pulp contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp gets infected due to tooth decay or trauma, it can cause pain, swelling, and even abscesses. Root canal treatment removes this infected tissue, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further infection. It’s one of the most common tooth decay treatments dentists provide, and it helps save teeth that might otherwise need to be extracted.
Common Symptoms of Needing a Root Canal
Here are the main signs that your tooth may need root canal treatment NE Calgary are
1. Persistent Tooth Pain
If your tooth hurts all the time or the pain comes and goes but keeps returning, it’s a strong warning sign. Pain may worsen when you bite down, chew or even touch the tooth. Some people describe it as a sharp, stabbing pain, while others feel a dull ache.
2. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
Do you feel a sharp twinge when drinking hot coffee or cold water? Sensitivity that lingers after exposure to hot or cold is another common symptom. It can mean that the nerves inside your tooth are inflamed, a sign that root canal therapy may be needed.
3. Swelling or Tenderness
Swelling in the gums near a tooth or tenderness when touching the area can indicate infection. Sometimes the swelling is mild and easy to miss, but in other cases, it can cause noticeable discomfort or a small bump on your gums called an abscess.
4. Darkening of the Tooth
A tooth that starts turning darker than your other teeth may be dying inside. This discoloration can happen slowly and might not hurt at first, but it’s a sign you should see a dentist near you for a checkup.
5. Gum Changes
If your gums are red, swollen or have a persistent pimple-like bump, it could be a sign of infection at the root of your tooth. Ignoring these symptoms can allow the disease to spread, which may lead to more serious problems.
6. Tooth Looseness
Sometimes, an infected tooth may feel loose in your mouth. This can happen if the infection has damaged the bone around the tooth. Feeling a loose tooth is a serious warning, and a dentist should examine it immediately.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Many people hesitate to get root canal treatment because they fear discomfort. However, modern dental techniques make it as comfortable as possible. Waiting too long can lead to severe pain, more complicated treatment, or even tooth loss. If you notice any of the symptoms above, it’s best to schedule a visit with a dentist near you as soon as possible.
Root canal therapy not only saves your tooth but also stops the infection from spreading to other areas. Dentists can also combine it with tooth decay treatment if cavities cause the disease.
How a Dentist Diagnoses the Need for a Root Canal
During your visit, the dentist will examine your tooth and may take X-rays to see the infection inside. They’ll ask about your symptoms, check for sensitivity, and look at the condition of the surrounding gums. This careful evaluation ensures the correct treatment — whether a root canal, another type of tooth decay treatment, or other dental care.
Preserve Your Tooth with a Root Canal
At Memorial Square Dental, we help patients keep their teeth strong and healthy with safe, effective root canal treatment. Our skilled dentists use gentle methods to remove infection, ease pain, and restore your tooth’s health. We make every visit comfortable and worry-free so that you can feel at ease.
Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier smile!
FAQs
Does a root canal hurt?
Most patients feel little to no pain during the procedure because dentists use local anesthesia. Some mild discomfort may happen afterward, but it usually goes away within a few days.
How long does root canal therapy take?
It typically takes one or two visits to complete. The exact timing depends on how severe the infection is and how many canals the tooth has.
Can a root canal save my tooth?
Yes! Root canal therapy removes the infection and seals the tooth. With proper care, your tooth can last a lifetime.
How do I know if I need a root canal or just a filling?
A dentist will evaluate the depth of the decay and the health of your tooth pulp. If the pulp is infected, a root canal is necessary.
Can root canal treatment prevent further infection?
Absolutely. The procedure removes bacteria and infected tissue, preventing the infection from spreading to surrounding teeth or gums.
