A root canal is required when the nerve of a tooth has been injured.
This can happen for numerous reasons including a deep cavity, a previous deep filling, a cracked tooth or trauma.
How Do I Know if I need a Root Canal?
When the nerve gets injured, it will get inflamed. This leads to the symptoms and pain associated with a tooth that needs a root canal.
Tooth Hypersensitive to Temperature and Biting- Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Typically, the first signs of a tooth needing a root canal are hypersensitivity to cold that lingers, and/or sensitivity to heat. It can also be uncomfortable to chew. The sensitivity to cold differs from regular cold sensitivity as it is much more pronounced and lingers even after the cold material is gone. Eventually, this sensitivity and/or pain will go away. This may lead you to think that the tooth is now okay, but this is not the case. It means that the nerve of the tooth has died, which will result in an infection. Signs of infection include swelling, a boil on the gums and/or pain when chewing/biting on the tooth. These infections can often come and go. Antibiotics can alleviate the symptoms temporarily, but they are not curative. A root canal will still be eventually required to save the tooth even if it completely asymptomatic.
Other Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Unfortunately, not all teeth that need root canals follow this pattern. On occasion, the nerve in one’s tooth can die without any pain and/or symptoms. Dentists make the diagnosis based on the patient’s symptoms, a clinical examination of the tooth, as well as xrays.
Why You Need a Crown After A Root Canal
A dentist will often recommend a crown after the root canal is completed. Since the nerve and blood supply to the tooth is gone, these teeth become more brittle and more susceptible to fracture. A crown is the best way to decrease the risk of a tooth fracture.
When is a Root Canal Needed?
Delaying or avoiding a necessary root canal can result in severe consequences. The infection can spread to the jawbone or nearby teeth, causing serious oral health issues. In some cases, the infection can even lead to systemic health problems if bacteria enter the bloodstream. Moreover, tooth extraction is the only alternative when a root canal is not performed, leading to a gap in the dental arch and potential misalignment of neighboring teeth.
It is essential to recognize the signs that indicate the need for a root canal, such as persistent toothache, sensitivity, or swelling, and seek prompt dental attention. Early detection and treatment can improve the success rate of the root canal procedure and prevent further complications. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, regular dental check-ups, and timely treatment of dental issues can help reduce the likelihood of requiring a root canal in the first place. Dentists and endodontists play a crucial role in diagnosing the need for root canals and providing effective treatment to preserve the natural teeth and ensure a healthy and pain-free smile.
Wondering if you need a root canal? Please call Lee Family Dentistry to book in with one of our dentists - Janson or Anika can have a look!
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