A root canal may sound intimidating. It doesn’t have to be this way!
Root canal therapy is a highly effective—and typically painless—treatment for saving a damaged or infected tooth. When decay or infection reaches the inner pulp, a root canal removes the damage and relieves pain while preserving natural tooth structure. Recognizing certain warning signs early can help you seek out timely treatment, preventing pain and the need for more complicated procedures in the future.
1. Persistent Tooth Pain
Constant or throbbing tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure, is often a sign of deep decay or nerve damage. Pain that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter pain relievers or salt water rinses is a red flag that you may need a root canal.
2. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
A lingering sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks can also indicate nerve exposure inside the tooth. If this discomfort lasts more than a few seconds or worsens with time, the tooth’s inner “pulp” may be inflamed or infected.
3. Swollen or Tender Gums
Swelling, redness, or tenderness near a specific tooth can be a sign of an infection spreading to the gums. In some cases, this may also include a small pimple-like pocket of pus—or dental abscess—that causes pain, bad breath, and a lingering unpleasant taste.
4. Darkened or Discolored Teeth
Teeth that appear gray or significantly darker than the surrounding teeth may have dying pulp tissue inside. This discoloration occurs when internal damage affects blood flow to the tooth and often requires root canal treatment to prevent further decay.
5. Deep Decay or Cracks
Cavities or deep cracks allowed to fester can progress to a point where they expose the tooth’s inner layers, enable bacteria to enter, and cause an infection. When decay reaches the pulp, a filling may no longer suffice, making a root canal the best solution.
Efficient and Empathetic Root Canal Treatment in Edmond, OK
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, Edmond Dental Center in Edmond, OK, is here to help!
Dr. Michael Chandler and our experienced team are here to provide expert root canal treatment to eliminate infection, relieve pain, and restore your tooth’s health. Contact our office today to schedule an evaluation!
