Root canal treatment removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth. Many patients are surprised to learn they need one because the signs are not always obvious. Here are the most common indicators that Dr. Richardson looks for at his Kalamazoo, MI, dental practice.
Common Signs You May Need Root Canal Treatment
- Persistent or severe toothache: Pain that does not go away, especially pain that throbs or wakes you at night.
- Prolonged sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers for more than a few seconds after the source is removed.
- Darkening of the tooth: A grey or darkened tooth may indicate that the inner tissue has died.
- Swelling or tenderness in the gum: A pimple-like bump on the gum near a tooth is often a sign of an abscess.
- Pain when you bite or chew: Pressure on an infected tooth often causes sharp or persistent pain when eating or chewing.
What If There Are No Symptoms?
Some teeth that need root canal treatment cause little or no pain. This is why routine x-rays matter. Infection can develop silently and only become visible on imaging before it causes noticeable symptoms.
What Happens If You Wait?
An untreated infection does not resolve on its own. It spreads to the surrounding bone and tissue and can eventually affect neighboring teeth.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call Mark Richardson, DDS, in Kalamazoo at (269) 343-6907 or book online. Early treatment often means a simpler procedure and a faster recovery.