4 Warning Signs You Need a Root Canal

Root canals are routine restorative dental procedures. In fact, US dentists perform more than 40,000 root canals each day, which is just over 15 million annually. Unfortunately, about 60% of people are more afraid of getting a root canal than speaking in public. Root canals with Dr. Gleaner are painless, relaxing, and can restore an infected tooth before it falls out or requires extraction.

Visit Dr. David Gleaner at his family dentistry practice in Bayonne, New Jersey, at the first sign of an infected, damaged, or severely decaying tooth.

Common reasons for root canals

You could be a candidate for a root canal if you have a deep cavity or an infection inside your tooth. These concerns could occur because of severe tooth decay, a crack, or other forms of tooth damage that allow bacteria to infect the inside pulp of the affected tooth. Minor decay or damage may simply need a filling or veneer, while extreme concerns could warrant extraction. 

Warning signs you may need a root canal

The four main warning signs you might need a root canal include:

Persistent or severe tooth pain

A toothache that doesn’t go away, worsens, or is severe is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention from a professional. Your tooth might hurt when you touch it or chew food, constantly ache, or become sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. 

Deep dental pain, especially discomfort that spreads to your other teeth, face, or jaw, often indicates an infection requiring a root canal. 

Swelling

Swelling is also a sign of an infection, which could mean you need a root canal. You might experience swelling or tenderness in your gums, face, or jaw. If you develop swelling that worsens, is persistent, or causes discomfort, see Dr. Gleaner as soon as possible.

Discoloration 

Tooth discoloration happens when a tooth pulp becomes infected, reducing blood flow to the affected tooth. Tooth damage, trauma, and some diseases can also cause discoloration, which is why it’s important to see Dr. Gleaner at the first sign of a problem. 

Pus

A tooth infection can cause pus to build up in the tooth itself or inside your gums. You might notice a pimple on your gums that oozes pus, which could have a four odor and cause bad breath. Pus and swelling from a tooth infection can also damage supporting bone, loosening nearby teeth.

Ways to reduce the risk of needing a root canal

Precautions you can take to lessen the risk of tooth damage, severe decay, and an infection include:

• Attending six-month dental cleanings and exams
• Not chewing on hard objects
• Brushing your teeth after meals
• Flossing your teeth daily 
• Wearing a mouthguard when playing contact sports
• Limiting or avoiding sweets, sugar-sweetened drinks, and other sugary foods

If you grind your teeth at night while sleeping, consider a custom-fitted night guard available at Dr. Gleaner’s office to protect your teeth from damage.

Anytime you or a family member develops warning signs of needing a root canal, contact us right away by phone or request an appointment online. Walk-ins are welcome.