Each of your teeth is made up of hard enamel and dentine. Below those layers is the tooth’s pulp which contains the nerves and blood vessels at the centre of the tooth. The pulp can become infected if dental decay reaches the pulp chamber, leading to pain, and swelling. . Root canal therapy removes the infected pulp from the affected tooth. Once the infected tissue is removed, the tooth’s centre is filled to help prevent reinfection of the tooth.. So why do you need a root canal treatment, and what are the telltale signs? Let’s dig in.
Signs You Need a Root Canal Treatment
If you’re a savvy patient, and we’ve got no doubt you are, there are some signs you may notice that could indicate you need a root canal treatment. But what are they? Here are some of the most common.
Severe Pain
A toothache can send you to the dentist fast. Toothache can also be the first sign that root canal treatment is necessary. You may not have realized your tooth was compromised or had any decay until pain develops. If pain develops contact your dentist as soon as possible to have the source of the pain identified and a treatment plan created to get you out of pain. Taking pain relief can also help relieve pain while waiting to see your dentist.
Pimple on the Gums
If you see what looks like a pimple or a small bump on your gum, you may have an infected tooth that needs to be tended to immediately. If the gum boil ruptures, it will probably leak pus filled with bacteria into your mouth. See your dentist without delay should this occur. Likewise, should you develop a temperature of more than 38°C, see your dentist immediately. If you can`t see your dentist contact your doctor/GP immediately for assessment. Your dentist may recommend root canal therapy or extraction of the tooth as well as possibly a course of antibiotics.
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
Sometimes, the first sign of an infected tooth can be sudden sensitivity to either hot foods and beverages or cold food and drink. Temperature sensitivity in a tooth can occur from a cracked or decayed tooth or when the enamel is wearing down over time. Mention tooth sensitivity to your dentist if you feel any discomfort.
Swollen Gums
Have you noticed your gums have become swollen? You may have gingivitis or even periodontal disease. Or, you might have an infected tooth requiring a root canal, and the infection has spread to your gums or surrounding tissue. t. Don’t take swollen gums lightly; contact your dentist immediately for the proper treatments.
Chipped or Cracked Tooth
Sometimes a chipped or cracked tooth can be saved with root canal treatment but in some instances it may require removal. Root canal therapy allows you to keep the tooth if the pulp is exposed. After the root canal procedure, the last step will be for your Mona Vale dentist to place a crown to protect the root canaled tooth from fracture.
Tender Gums
Tender gums can often be caused by gingivitis, but there are exceptions. One such exception is an underlying infection in one or more teeth. If your gums are unusually tender to the touch in one area only, contact your dentist immediately to learn the cause of the pain.
An Abscess/Swelling
An abscessed tooth may develop over time , but the acute symptoms can occur rapidly. If the infection gets into the tissues you may get a sudden high temperature, the chills, and a general feeling of being unwell may occur. Remarkably, the acute symptoms go away quickly once the infection is treated. A spreading infection causing swelling should be treated immediately, contact your dentist (and/or GP) as soon as possible. .
Root Canal Treatment Northern Beaches
Do you live in the Northern Beaches area? If so, our Mona Vale dental practice is at your service.
Visiting us, you’ll find a caring and friendly team of dentists with extensive experience in root canal treatment that’s gentle and convenient.
Many people get anxious upon learning they need more extensive dental treatment. Should you suffer from “dental anxiety”, we understand. We’re committed to making your root canal treatment, and all your dental care, as comfortable and relaxing as possible.
So, if your mouth shows some telltale signs that all is not well, don’t put it off. Contact us today to book a consultation.
