5 Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Each year, more than 15 million Americans undergo root canals, also known as root canal therapy. The procedure, which removes the pulp from inside a tooth, prevents infection from spreading, relieves a toothache, and can help you avoid an extraction. 

But if you aren’t a dentist, or your affected tooth isn’t causing persistent pain, it can be challenging to know whether you’re a good candidate.

At U&I Smile in Beaverton, Oregon, experienced dentist Lilian Liu, DMD, regularly performs root canals. Read on to discover five telltale signs that indicate you may benefit from a root canal to save your tooth and smile. 

Sign 1: Persistent tooth pain

Everyone experiences tooth pain occasionally, typically due to an exposed tooth root or a tooth injury. 

However, if your pain persists for more than a few days and doesn’t improve with over-the-counter medication, it’s important to identify the cause. That’s especially true if the pain worsens when you bite or chew. 

Tooth pain triggered by pressure often indicates a problem with the pulp, a soft material inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and tissue. Since root canal therapy removes the pulp, it’s often the best solution for this type of pain.

Sign 2: Sensitivity to hot or cold

Is your tooth sensitive when you drink hot coffee or eat something cold, like ice cream? Increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures often points to pulp-related issues. 

After an oral exam and a digital X-ray, we can assess whether your pulp is infected and determine if a root canal is right for you. 

Sign 3: Swollen or tender gums

Many people notice that their gums appear swollen or become increasingly tender as infection develops, sometimes even before they experience tooth pain. If your gums appear puffy or feel sensitive when you gently press on them, request a dental exam.

Sign 4: Tooth discoloration

Infected pulp that goes untreated can destroy the nerves and blood vessels inside your tooth, leading to pulp necrosis or tissue death. When that happens, it cuts off circulation to the tooth and releases pigments that can stain the enamel from within.

Don’t wait to see us if one of your teeth turns gray, brown, or black. Discoloration can happen for various reasons, but we need to rule out a cavity.

Sign 5: Pimple on the gums

When a tooth infection becomes severe, bacteria can travel through the tooth root and into the gum tissue. As more bacteria build up, they release pus, which can cause a sore or pimple to form on the gums nearest the affected tooth.

These pimples can resemble other types of oral sores, so it’s crucial to identify the cause.

Concerned you may need a root canal? Schedule today

If you suspect you have a dental infection or are concerned you may need a root canal, don’t wait for treatment. The sooner you take action, the quicker you can protect your smile. 

Contact our office by phone or online today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Liu and our caring team.