4 Early Warning Signs You Need a Root Canal Soon

The thought of having a root canal may send shivers down your spine. Despite what you may hear, root canals are relatively painless dental procedures performed to save your teeth.

Don’t ignore the signs to avoid a root canal or you may need a tooth extraction instead.

At Solay Dental in Oldsmar, Florida, our compassionate dentist Dr. Shiva Soleimani understands the fears you have about dental care and the many misunderstandings surrounding root canals. 

In this month’s blog, we want to share some of the early warning signs that a root canal is in your near future.

1. Ongoing tooth pain

Pain of any kind is a sign that something is wrong. Tooth pain is a serious symptom you shouldn’t ignore, especially if the pain is ongoing or severe. 

Though not all causes of tooth pain require a root canal, coming in for a dental visit right away may help you avoid serious dental work. 

We perform a root canal when you have an infection that affects the pulp of the tooth. The pulp is the soft center of the tooth that contains the blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. 

During a root canal, we remove the pulp, disinfect the inner tooth chamber, fill the chamber with dental cement, and cover the tooth with a crown. The purpose of the root canal is to save your tooth. 

2. Sudden change in tooth color

Tooth discoloration is common and has many causes. But a sudden darkening of a tooth is a sign of a pulp infection. If you have a tooth that’s graying, you may need a root canal.  

The tooth’s darkened color is a sign of tooth root damage.

3. Drinking coffee makes your teeth hurt

Do you have lingering tooth pain after drinking hot or cold coffee? Sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks may mean you have damaged or infected tooth nerves. 

The severity of the pain varies from a dull ache to sharp shooting sensation. But if the pain lingers long after you finish eating or drinking, you may need a root canal.

4. Gums are red and swollen

Redness and swelling of the gums near a bothersome tooth are also warning signs that a root canal is in your future. The symptoms occur when the pulp infection moves to the gums, causing inflammation and swelling. 

You may also develop an abscess, or pus-filled bump on the gum. This is a sign of a serious infection that needs immediate dental care.

The reason you need a root canal is a lot more painful than the procedure itself. Don’t let your fears keep you from seeing the dentist. Root canals are quick and effective and not much different from a routine filling. 

Do you have tooth pain, gum swelling, or sensitivity to hot or cold drinks? Then it’s time to schedule a visit. Call our office today or click the online booking button to make your appointment.