How to Know If You Need a Root Canal: Signs & Symptoms

Imagine waking up with a toothache that won’t quit. Initially, you convince yourself it is just a mild irritation. But days roll by, and the ache just gets worse. You find it difficult to eat or drink, not to mention concentrate. Is this a pointer that you might need a root canal?

A root canal is a treatment in which the infected or damaged pulp tissue is removed from within the tooth to relieve pain and save that tooth from extraction. The mere mention of the term “root canal” sends shivers up one’s spine, but it is hardly as painful as the build-up of the symptoms. Recognizing the earlier signs and getting dental attention is the key to negating agonizing pain. So when do you know it’s time to visit the dentist? Let’s break it down.

Common Signs & Symptoms of a Needed Root Canal

1. Persistent Tooth Pain

One of the most telling signs that you may need a root canal is when the pain is not going away. Occasional toothaches are common, but pain caused by root canal problems seems to be different.

• It may be constant or intermittent, but it gets progressively worse.
• You may feel it deep in the tooth or radiating to the jaw, face, or ear.
• It may worsen when lying down or when you’re done eating.
• If it’s unbearable or spanning weeks, you’re overdue for a dentist appointment.

2. Hot or Cold Sensitivity

Are you jumping in pain after sipping hot coffee or ice cream? Some sensitivity is normal, but if the pain lingers far longer than the hot or cold stimulus, it could be a sign of nerve damage deep within your tooth.

• The dull ache and sharp pain with temperature changes may indicate infected pulp tissue.
• Topical analgesics can temporarily lessen pain, but they will never heal.
• This lingering sensitivity strongly suggests that root canal therapy in Glendora will very likely be necessary to remove the compromised nerve and prevent further complications.

3. Swollen or Tender Gums

Your gums can say so much about your health. Swelling and tenderness in a localized area may indicate an infection deep within.

• Expect redness, puffiness, or some sort of bump that looks like a pimple, called an abscess.
• When you press the swollen area, pus may ooze out – an indication of active infection.
• Swollen gums can accompany a bad taste or foul breath.

4. Tooth Discoloration

If it gradually turns dark gray or brown, this signifies a situation that requires urgent attention. The tooth is in serious trouble since this discoloration occurs as a result of nerve death due to infection or trauma. Unlike surface stains from coffee or smoking, which can be improved with whitening products, internal discoloration is there to stay. 

If your tooth is darkening and the situation is accompanied by persistent pain or swelling, you should have it looked at before it becomes too damaged for preservation.

5. Pain When Chewing or Touching the Tooth

That is a good indication of something wrong: one hard gulp and even a light touch on the tooth causes jolts of pains through the body.

• Chewing pain means that the infection has descended to the root of the tooth.
• There may be associated pressure or heaviness in the affected area.
• In such intense cases, the sharp and sudden pain makes eating quite difficult.

6. Loose Tooth

With an infected tooth, the shifts tend to become loose because of the deterioration of the supporting structures. Bacteria are weakening the bone surrounding the teeth and creating an instability in support.

If your tooth seems to be loosening up but feels like it moves away slightly, do not ignore it; maybe it is on its way to falling out.

A root canal may sound scary, but it is one effective way to remove pain and retain your actual tooth. Signs must not be ignored as they lead to more severe infections, higher costs of treatment, and tooth loss. If you have constant tooth pain, sensitivity beyond the extent of the ordinary, or even swollen gums, do not hesitate, but go to the dentist as early as possible. The sooner you treat it, the faster you will be well and ready to smile painlessly.