Signs that You May Need Root Canal Treatment

Signs that You May Need Root Canal Treatment

Dealing with a toothache? It’s time to see our Fort Lauderdale, FL, dentist right away.

It’s important to understand when there are problems with your smile that require immediate care. Symptoms should never go ignored. Root CanalPain and other problems you’re experiencing with teeth or gums often signify a problem that our Fort Lauderdale, FL, general dentist Dr. David Erdman will need to treat. Find out more about root canal treatment and the telltale signs and symptoms that you might need one.

What is a root canal?

A root canal allows our Fort Lauderdale, FL, dentist to go inside the tooth to remove an infected or irritated dental pulp. The dental pulp is a soft-tissue structure that lies inside the tooth.

The pulp can be damaged from severe decay, traumatic injury, or a crack in the tooth. Once the pulp is infected or inflamed the only option is to remove it in order to save the tooth and to prevent further damage to the jawbone and surrounding teeth.

How do I know that I need root canal therapy?

The more complicated answer is that you may not know. Yes, we know that isn’t what you want to hear, but this is why visiting your dentist for routine checkups is key to making sure that if there is a problem that it’s taken care of as soon as possible. The two most common symptoms are,

A Toothache

Pain that’s the result of an inflamed or infected pulp can vary from person to person. Some people may only experience very minor discomfort while other people may deal with unbearable pain. No matter how minor the pain, it shouldn’t go ignored. Another classic warning sign is pain that gets worse when chewing, biting or putting pressure on the tooth.

Tooth Sensitivity

Does your tooth suddenly experience prolonged pain after drinking or eating anything that is hot or cold? If so, this could mean that you have a cracked or fractured tooth, which could also have affected the dental pulp.

Other possible warning signs that you need a root canal include:

  • Discoloration or sudden darkening of the tooth
  • Gum tenderness, swelling or redness around the tooth
  • A persistent growth or bump on the gums (known as an abscess)

Don’t just put up with a throbbing, aching tooth; it’s time to find a dentist who will get you in for treatment right away. Call our Fort Lauderdale, FL, dental office today and let us know that you are experiencing any of these symptoms. We will get you the care you need.