Root canals get a bad rap nowadays. Individuals often assume that this procedure is excruciating. However, although the root canal procedure is not the most comfortable thing in the world, it is a safe and effective way of relieving pain.
A root canal procedure at Dental Studio of Pasadena is designed to correct a tooth that is decayed, infected or diseased. If any of the following symptoms are relevant to you, it may be a sign that you require a root canal, and you should see the dentist immediately.
- You Have A Serious Toothache
The number one sign that you require a root canal is an ongoing pain in and around one or more of your teeth. The pain you experience might be on the surface of your teeth or deep within the jaw and bones.
Regardless of where the discomfort is, you should have it assessed by a knowledgeable dental specialist. Although tooth pain might signal that a root canal is necessary, it could also stem from other oral concerns like an impacted tooth, gum disease, and more.
- You Are Excessively Sensitive to Cold or Hot Drinks and Foods
If cold items like ice water or ice cream and hot drinks like tea and coffee trigger discomfort, it might imply that your nerves are damaged and exposed. In such cases, a root canal may be necessary.
Cold and hot liquids tend to seep into tiny holes caused by some oral health issues. These liquids and foods irritate the exposed nerves, making them react with the pain sensation. A root canal treatment could be effective in alleviating this pain.
- You Have A Chipped or Cracked Tooth
Tooth chipping or cracking might seem minor, but you should never disregard it. Cracks and chips expose the underlying nerves. This exposure allows bacteria to infiltrate, causing an infection that can sometimes enter the bloodstream, and cause more complications.
Therefore, if you crack your tooth by biting on something hard or participating in contact sports, see a dentist immediately. In some cases, your condition might require a root canal treatment.
- One or More of Your Teeth are Discolored
Often, tooth discolorations happen because of poor oral hygiene. Smoking and exposure to certain drinks and foods like tea and coffee could also make your teeth turn brownish or yellowish.
An extensive cleaning mostly corrects this issue. However, a darkening tooth could signify root or nerve damage beneath its surface. Once your dentist identifies this issue, they may suggest a root canal procedure to avoid more damage.
- You Feel Pain When Applying Pressure to your Tooth
Whenever you brush, eat, or exert any pressure on your teeth, if you experience some discomfort, it might be a sign of tooth decay or nerve damage. If the discomfort is mild, it probably might not require a root canal.
However, if the pain is continuous over time, despite not exerting any pressure on your tooth, it might indicate an infection. Such infections are best corrected through a root canal to remove the affected pulp tissue.
If your dentist informs you that a root canal is your only alternative, you do not have to panic. Root canals are quite prevalent, and with a knowledgeable specialist, they do not have to be as painful as you may imagine.
In fact, your dentist should numb you during the procedure, which means it will be entirely pain-free. Discuss your unique concerns with your specialist to determine if you are the right candidate for a root canal.