Signs That You Need a Root Canal Therapy

A root canal is a dental procedure performed when a tooth's nerve and pulp are infected. This infection results in pain and often a dental abscess, a collection of pus that has formed in the gum. A root canal removes the infection from the tooth, and the tooth is then filled and restored. A root canal is safe and effective and can save your natural tooth. 

There are several signs that signal the need for root canal therapy, a few of which have been listed below. 

Tooth Sensitivity

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, it could signify that you need root canal therapy. This occurs when you can’t brush and floss your teeth without experiencing significant discomfort. This sensitivity can also extend to eating or drinking. Tooth sensitivity can cause a number of unpleasant sensations, including sharp pain, throbbing pain, or constant pain.

Chronic Bad Breath

If you’ve noticed that you tend to experience bad breath more than normal, there’s a chance that you need a root canal treatment. If the pulp of your tooth is infected, this can cause the soft tissues inside to fester. This may cause foul odors in the mouth.

It’s also possible that a dental bridge or filling is loose, which can cause a foul odor. If the filling or bridge is loose, it’s essential to see a dentist as soon as possible.

Tooth Discoloration

If your tooth has changed color, it could be a sign that you need a root canal. The discoloration could be darkening or lightning or it might be a gray color.

Discoloration might be because of infection of the pulp in the tooth. Bacteria can enter the pulp, which will cause the tooth to darken. Since infection is a sign of infection, your tooth may also become sensitive and throb when you chew or put pressure on it.

Discoloration might also be caused by trauma, such as biting your cheek. If you experience trauma or injury, you should see a dentist right.

Swelling Around the Tooth

The swelling you’re experiencing is probably associated with the tooth’s root. If you have a tooth with a diseased or infected root, its proximity to the bone and gum tissue can cause swelling.

Root canal therapy is used to treat infections and diseased roots. Infected roots can be painful and cause discomfort, swelling, and even pus. If you notice an increase in swelling around a tooth, give us a call to schedule a visit.

Please reach out to our dental practice at 400 N Tennessee St, McKinney, TX 75069, to have a consultation with our dentists. Call us at (972) 562-0197 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.