If you have been doing your best to take care of your smile, you may expect to hear nothing but good news when you visit your dentist for your routine checkup. You might be shocked, then, when you learn that you need a major treatment. “But I am not in pain!” you may exclaim, “Why do I need a root canal?” This blog post discusses signs that root canal therapy may be necessary. It also explains why the treatment may be needed even when no obvious symptoms are present.
What Are Some Signs that a Root Canal Is Necessary?
A severe toothache often indicates an infection inside a tooth, in the collection of tissue known as the pulp. When the pulp becomes inflamed, the tooth’s nerve can send very strong pain signals to the brain. If you are experiencing this symptom, you might be eager to accept any treatment recommendation that your dentist suggests.
However, pain is not the only sign that a root canal is needed. Other indications include:
- A tooth has a noticeably dark color.
- A tooth has suffered visible damage, such as a chip or crack.
- A tooth is extremely sensitively to temperature changes and pressure.
- A pimple-like bump has appeared on the gums.
No Obvious Symptoms? You Still Might Need Root Canal Therapy
Even if you have not noticed any of the abovementioned symptoms, there is still a small possibility that you need root canal therapy. This scenario can occur for any of the following reasons:
- A new infection has developed. An X-ray could reveal a new infection inside a tooth. It may not have yet reached the point where it is able to cause pain. Undergoing timely treatment could spare you from a future toothache.
- A tooth has died. When the nerve inside a tooth is no longer functioning, it cannot send pain signals to the brain. However, the infection that killed the nerve could still be attacking nearby tissues. A root canal can play a big role in ending such an infection and protecting your oral health.
- A damaged tooth needs a crown. In some cases, it is necessary for a dentist to perform root canal therapy so they can place a post within a tooth. The post can then help to support a new crown.
Do Not Wait to Be in Pain
If you are unsure about your dentist’s advice that you undergo root canal therapy, you should feel free to seek a second opinion. However, do not wait too long to undergo treatment. Delays could allow your problem to worsen. The state of your tooth could deteriorate to the point where it needs to be extracted! It is always best to take prompt action when your oral health could be at stake.
Meet the Practice
The experts at Northborough Dental Associates proudly offer a broad range of restorative treatments, including root canal therapy. If you have questions about why certain procedures are necessary or what to expect from them, we would be happy to speak with you. Contact our office at 508-571-0358.