How do you know if an infected tooth requires a root canal?

root canal pain

Root canals are needed for various reasons. Individuals who experience pain or swelling in their teeth may have an infection. If they do have an infection this could require a root canal. Root canals happen when a deep infection occurs in a tooth’s root and pulp. It can cause serious tooth damage, if not left untreated. Root canals can be accomplished in one to three visits depending on the circumstance. If you are experiencing any type of tooth sensitivity or pain, you should take the necessary precautions and schedule a visit with one of our skilled general dentistry, dentists located in Basking Ridge and Morristown, NJ. We can help get your tooth back to its original healthy state. 

What is a root canal?

A root canal can be a serious procedure that involves more than one visit to the dentist. When there is swelling and inflammation in a tooth, this normally means there is an infection. An infection as such is deep within a tooth. When this type of infection happens a dentist will have to perform a root canal. A root canal is done by removing any infected pulp and nerve in the root of the tooth. This procedure cleans and disinfects the inside of the root canal. This is done to eliminate the infection from your tooth. Once it is cleaned of the infectious bacteria the canal is filled and sealed. The final step of a root canal is putting a crown on the tooth to protect it. This will help restore and rejuvenate the tooth back to health. If this type of infection is left untreated and a root canal is not performed, it can lead to another painful tooth issue. It could result in the loss of the tooth altogether.

What symptoms indicate the need for this type of procedure?

Sometimes individuals believe tooth pain will go away with time and ignore the warning signs. However, any tooth discomfort you are feeling should be checked out by a dentist. This kind of pain and sensitivity can indicate an infection is present. Individuals may experience several different symptoms that indicated the need for a root canal. Some of these symptoms may include:

  • persistent pain
  • significant tooth pain when chewing
  • discoloration – darkened or decayed gums
  • swollen or inflamed gums
  • experience pain when you touch the tooth
  • oversensitivity when chewing or drinking something hot or cold
  • prolonged sensitivity
  • a chipped or cracked tooth
  • drainage from the tooth
  • tooth mobility
  • pimples on the gums

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms you must go to the dentist and get your teeth checked. It is important to regularly have your teeth checked out by your dentist. This way if there are any infections or other teeth issues, a dentist can catch them early and properly treat them. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment today so we can make sure your teeth remain healthy.

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