5 Signs You May Need a Root Canal Treatment

At Highlight Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to maintaining healthy, functional smiles. There are times we may recommend root canal treatment to save damaged teeth and restore healthy, functional smiles. We use the latest dental technology and techniques to ensure you have the best possible experience. Here’s a look at the most common signs you may need a root canal treatment. 

What Is Root Canal Therapy? 

Root canal therapy is an endodontic treatment dedicated to treating teeth with infected or inflamed pulp. Tooth pulp damage usually results from deep decay, tooth cracks or chips, large fillings, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. 

Your root canal treatment involves removing the inflamed or infected tooth pulp and nerves, cleaning and preparing the space, and placing a biocompatible material known as gutta-percha before sealing the space. Following treatment, we will need to cover the root canal-treated tooth with a dental crown to protect it and restore its strength and beautifully natural appearance. 

What Are the Signs That You Might Need a Root Canal Treatment?

Here is a look at five signs that indicate you may need a root canal:

#1 Persistent Tooth Pain: One of the most common signs of tooth pulp damage requiring a root canal treatment is persistent tooth pain and a throbbing sensation. The pain may vary in intensity and may come and go. It may also worsen when you bite down or apply pressure to the tooth. 

#2 Sensitivity to Hot or Cold: Do you wince in pain when you sip on a hot cup of coffee or bite into your favorite ice cream? Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures is another sign of tooth pulp damage, especially if the discomfort lingers longer after removing the temperature source. That’s because the nerves inside your teeth are sensitive and, when infected, can react to temperature extremes. 

#3 Swollen Gums: Swelling in the gums around a specific tooth can signal an underlying problem, such as an infection. Inflamed gums might appear red, tender, or swollen and may even develop a pimple-like bump indicating an abscess. It’s important to treat this infection promptly to ensure it doesn’t spread to the surrounding tissues, potentially leading to more significant concerns. 

#4 Tooth Discoloration: Discoloration, especially darkening of a tooth, can indicate tooth pulp damage, usually resulting from trauma. This discoloration occurs as the pulp tissues break down, causing the tooth to darken from the inside out. It’s important to note that not all tooth discoloration is due to pulp damage – it can result from staining or the natural aging process. 

#5 Swelling of the Face or Neck: A tooth infection, left untreated, can work its way into the bloodstream. Swelling close to the painful tooth may indicate the infection has spread, which can be a serious condition requiring immediate care. We recommend seeking root canal treatment well before reaching this advanced stage of tooth pulp infection. Don’t wait. Facial swelling is a dental emergency, so call our office immediately! 

Root Canal Treatment Near Me in Hutto, TX

Paying attention to the warning signs of tooth pulp damage can help save a damaged tooth and prevent a host of complications. Our team at Highlight Family Dentistry offers gentle, virtually pain-free root canal treatments using the latest technology and techniques. We are committed to providing you with the best possible care. Call us at (512) 886-2644 to schedule your appointment, or book one online today!