What Are the Signs of Needing a Root Canal?

Root Canals

The root canal is a procedure that allows us to remove damaged or infected tissue from the center of a tooth. It’s designed to relieve pain caused by a diseased or infected pulp, as well as prevent bacteria from entering the tooth and spreading to other teeth.

A root canal is also a good option to avoid having to have a tooth pulled or replaced with another restorative treatment, like a dental implant or bridge. It’s a very common procedure that can save the life of a tooth that has been badly damaged or infected. If you are looking for a skilled Sarasota Root Canal Specialist and more information about crowns and bridges, visit https://www.thesarasotadentist.net/root-canals/.

What are the signs of needing a root canal?

During an examination, your Sarasota Root Canal Specialist will look at your teeth to see if you have any signs that indicate you need this treatment. These signs include:

Tooth pain that doesn’t go away or lingers for more than a few seconds.

This symptom usually occurs when the nerve in the center of your tooth is damaged or infected. In some cases, the nerve will begin to die, causing the tooth to become dark in color.

Tooth pain that radiates to other teeth, your jaw, or your face may also be a sign of needing a root canal. This pain often begins in the middle of the night and lasts for a long time, despite the fact that you may be sleeping or not using your affected tooth at all.

Extreme sensitivity to heat and cold: This is another telltale sign that your tooth needs a root canal. It’s a specific symptom that is very different from the sensitivity that people experience to hot and cold food and beverages when they are healthy.

Swollen gums: The infected area inside a tooth can collect pus, causing puffy, reddened gums that can be tender to the touch. A fistula (bump on the gum) is another symptom of infection that your dentist should look for.

The success of a root canal depends on several factors, including how badly your tooth has been infected and how deep the infection has spread. Generally, the more severe the infection is, the longer the treatment will take.

X-rays and lab work are needed to determine the condition of your tooth. During the root canal, your Sarasota Root Canals Specialist will use special tools to examine your tooth and treat it correctly.

Recovery after a root canal is easy and painless, unlike other more invasive procedures that require a period of recovery. Many patients return to work or school on the same day.

It’s important to remember that your Sarasota Root Canal Specialist may recommend some medication to reduce discomfort and help you recover more quickly, if necessary. However, you should not use these medications if you have any health conditions or take certain medicines, such as blood thinners.

What are the risks of getting a root canal?

There are some risks associated with root canals, but most of them are very low. They are similar to the risks that you would face if you had an abrasion, broken bone, or other accident.