A root canal is a dental procedure in which a professional eliminates bacteria from an infected tooth to prevent reinfection and preserve the natural tooth. Dentists and patients often opt for root canals to avoid extracting a tooth and to remove the source of the patient’s pain or alleviate other symptoms. There are many reasons why a person might need a root canal—here are seven of them.
1. Deep decay
When a tooth is badly infected or decayed, a root canal may be necessary. Deep decay can cause the nerve of a tooth to become inflamed and irritated. This situation can be painful for the patient. A root canal can remove the infection that is causing the discomfort and repair the tooth so that it will last much longer.
2. Repeated dental procedures on the tooth
Dental procedures can place significant stress on a tooth. Repeated drilling can lead to inflammation of the pulp of the tooth. When the pulp becomes damaged, it starts to break down, allowing bacteria to multiply rapidly within the chamber. This bacterial growth, along with the remnants of dying pulp, can lead to infection or abscess. A root canal is often the best solution.
3. Faulty crown
A crown on one of your teeth may last a lifetime–or it may break or chip. If you experience trouble with a crown, a root canal may be in order. If your crown is broken or otherwise faulty, it may make decay of the tooth more likely. You might not be aware of the decay forming under your broken crown, so if you notice that a crown is damaged in any way, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. Otherwise, you may need a root canal to repair the damage.
4. Crack or chip in the tooth
A crack or chip in one of your teeth is another situation that might lead to a root canal. Teeth crack from general wear and tear, and they may also crack as the result of an injury. Cracked teeth may be painful or very sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. Regardless of the symptoms, cracked teeth are more susceptible to decay and other problems that may require a root canal.
5. Persistent pain
Pain that doesn’t go away (or is recurring) is a potential sign that you need a root canal. You may feel tooth pain deep inside the tooth, or you may notice “referred” pain in your jaw, other teeth, or elsewhere in your face. If you have persistent tooth pain, be sure to see your dentist soon because it could indicate a condition that requires a root canal, such as an infection.
6. Sensitivity to heat and cold
If your tooth hurts when you eat hot or cold foods, such as coffee or ice cream, it may mean that you need a root canal. Whether the pain feels like a sharp stab or a dull ache, you should call your dentist to examine the issue. If the pain lingers even after you’ve finished eating or drinking, it’s a potential sign that the nerves and blood vessels in your tooth are damaged or infected.
7. Swollen gums
Are your gums swollen near a painful tooth? This swelling may signal a condition that requires a root canal. The swelling may come and go; it may be painful to the touch or not. You may also notice a boil or abscess on your gum. Any of these symptoms should send you to your dentist’s office as soon as possible to determine whether a root canal is necessary.
To learn more about The Endo House and Dr. Noureldin Shoreibah DDS, Board Certified Endodontist in Huntington Beach, CA, call (747) 227-4100.
