Top Signs You Might Need a Root Canal (And What to Do Next)

What is a root canal?

              It is a procedure that removes the soft middle of your tooth where the nerves and blood supply are.  Your tooth is sealed to prevent future damage.  Root canals are needed when you have a deep cavity or a severely cracked tooth.

Signs/Symptoms of tooth needing a root canal

·       Small or large bump on your gums that might ooze pus or look white underneath

·       Pain when chewing or touching your tooth or gum

·       Pain that lasts several days/weeks and then goes away (may be a sign that your tooth has died)q

·       Tender or swollen gums or jaw

·       Tooth darkens or becomes loose

What to do if you suspect you need a root canal

·      Make an appointment as soon as you can so Dr.Joseph or Dr. Schell can assess what’s going on.

·      During the appointment we’ll take needed x-rays,do needed tests (ex: cold and percussion tests)

·      The sooner you get assessed the more likely you are to save your tooth and prevent the infection from spreading.

Good information to know about root canals

·       Root canals are rarely more painful than getting a filling thanks to modern anesthesia.

·       You may feel pressure during the procedure and soreness after the numbness wears off.

·       It’s normal to have some lingering sensitivity for a while

·       Support healing by: avoiding smoking, brushing and flossing regularly, using antibacterial mouthwash to keep germs away, don’t chew on your tooth until the permanent crown or filling is placed

·       Rarely,root canals may have to be redone years later, especially if the infection or damage to your tooth is severe.  This is due to reinfection.

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