There are many misconceptions about root canal treatment in Grand Rapids, but in reality, it is a vital procedure that can save a tooth from extraction when infection or trauma occurs to the pulp of the tooth. Schedule an appointment with your dentist in Grand Rapids to find out if a root canal is needed if you experience any of the signs mentioned below. Identifying these symptoms in advance can help refrain from the aggravating of damage to your tooth and safeguard your oral health.
1. Persistent Tooth Pain
The most common symptom telling us we need a root canal is pain that persists near a particular tooth. The pain can be constant or may occur when performing certain actions, for example chewing or biting down. If pressing further down with your fingernail causes the pressure to intensify, this means bacteria are now at the root of the tooth packed tightly between nerves — in which case you need a root canal.
2. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
If you suddenly find yourself more sensitive to hot or cold (and the sensitivity continues long after the offending item is removed), it might mean that the pulp of the tooth (the soft tissue inside a tooth made up of nerves and blood vessels) is compromised. If hot or cold triggers temporary sensitivity, this could also indicate tooth decay; but if the pain persists, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth.
3. Swelling and Tender Gums
Very often, pain in the tooth also causes swelling or sensitivity in the gums around it, and that is another sign of pulp infection. The abscess is a pocket of pus formed from infected tissue. The swelling either looks like a little pimple or bump on the gums, it also gives a tasteless mouth or bad breath. In these instances, a root canal may be needed to extract the infection and maintain the tooth.
4. Discoloration of the Tooth
Finally, a tooth that becomes discolored (turning grayish or dark brown) may indicate damage or infection at the heart of the tooth. However, if the pulp is damaged or inflamed, discoloration of the tooth can occur. Any discoloration, particularly if it involves just one tooth, should be checked out by your dentist.
5. Pain When Touching the Tooth
When the dentist lightly taps a tooth to assess its condition, if you feel pain, that could also be another red flag indicating you may need root canal treatment. This kind of sensitivity usually indicates that the nerve in the tooth is irritated or infected, meaning treatment is necessary to prevent further damage and reduce pain.
6. Recurring Abscesses
This might indicate that there is a possible infection in the pulp of the tooth, which may result in recurrent abscesses or pimples on the gums. These abscesses are usually accompanied by some symptoms, like a terrible taste in your mouth, some swelling, or fever. Abscesses can occur from infected pulp tissue, and the abscess will not compose without a proper root canal to eradicate the infection before it continues into further structures.
For those of you who are currently experiencing any of the above symptoms, be sure to make an appointment with your dentist in Grand Rapids as soon as possible. Not treating may mean the infection can spread, and the chances of needing an extraction are also increased. If you take early action, your tooth can be rescued and the matter will not result in serious health problems later on.
