4 Signs You Need a Root Canal

No one ever wants to need serious dental treatments, but sometimes they’re needed to save a tooth that’s in jeopardy of being lost. If yourdentist in Stuart, FL has recommended that you have a root canal, you should have it done as soon as possible, to help prevent the condition from worsening. Chances are, you may have experienced warning signs that something was wrong. Here are four signs you need a root canal.

1. Persistent Pain

Your tooth shouldn’t hurt, even a little bit. If you have persistent pain—chronic pain—it’s a definite sign that something’s wrong. Often, serious tooth pain doesn’t even respond to over-the-counter pain killers. You should contact your dentist for an emergency appointment if you have such a condition, and from there, the dentist may recommend a root canal.

2. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

Another telltale sign of something amiss is sudden or lingering sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. If you find yourself wincing every time you sip an iced tea or a hot coffee, you may need a root canal.

3. Swollen Gums

Swelling around the affected tooth, or a small bump on the gums, means that there might be an infection, and it shouldn’t be ignored. Swelling isn’t normal, so it should be reported to your dentist.

4. Tooth a Funny Color

If the tooth’s color looks “off,” it might not just be stained from certain foods. It could actually be nerve damage. In other words, the tooth may be dying. Aroot canal in Stuart, FL could help save the tooth before further deterioration occurs.

If you notice things like this going on, you could need a root canal. Of course, your dentist is the ultimate judge of what kind of treatment you need. Just don’t put off contacting the dentist if you have these symptoms.