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Dental hygiene tips for healthy teeth & gums

What are symptoms of needing a root canal?

Trying to figure out whether you need a root canal is like trying to work out whether you need a filling. In the early stages of a problem, it can be hard to tell if better oral hygiene will resolve the issue or if a visit to a dentist is necessary. As a result, many of the signs can be determined only by a dentist. 

In case of any of the following symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist: 

  • Cold and heat sensitivity: It is possible to have sensitivity to cold and heat without needing a root canal. Those with root canals experience sensitivity and pain long after consuming hot or cold drinks or foods.
  • Having tender gums: A tender gum, even without touch, may indicate root canal pain. Be sure to tell the dentist about your tender gums when you visit.
  • Gums that are swollen: Your gums may swell if you have an infected tooth. Inflamed gums can sometimes occur after flossing or brushing too hard, but this is different. It is normal for the swollen gums to be tender and to feel a little painful to the touch.
  • Intense Pain: There is no need to ignore any pain in your mouth, but certain types may indicate root canal pain. An infected or dead tooth may need a root canal if it is causing you spontaneous pain like a wave.
  • A painful abscess: Abscesses show up as dark spots on x-rays. A hole in the jawbone results from an infection because bone won’t grow around it. 
  • Discoloration of the gums: A darkened gum is a sign that the gums are decayed. Gums begin to decay if there is an infection and the tooth is dying. It may be time to get a root canal if you have this symptom.

If you have any of these above symptoms, schedule an immediate appointment with your dentist.
Schedule your appointment with a dentist today and get the treatment on time!