.svg){kind=logo}
Tooth pain and discomfort can be more than just an annoyance—they can be a sign of a serious dental issue that requires immediate attention. One of the most common treatments for severe tooth pain is a root canal, a procedure designed to save a damaged or infected tooth. At Lansdowne Place Dental in Peterborough, we offer expert root canal treatment to relieve your pain and restore your oral health.
Here are five signs you might need a root canal, and what to do if you’re experiencing these symptoms.
1. Persistent Tooth Pain
Tooth pain that doesn’t go away is one of the most common indicators that you may need a root canal. This pain can range from mild to severe and might feel like a constant ache or sharp, stabbing pain. You may notice that the pain worsens when you bite down or put pressure on the affected tooth.
Why It Happens:
Persistent pain often indicates that the pulp inside your tooth is infected or inflamed. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels, and when it becomes damaged, it can cause significant discomfort. A root canal removes the infected pulp, relieving the pain and saving the tooth.
2. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
If you experience prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, it could be a sign that you need a root canal. This sensitivity may start as a dull ache and linger even after you’ve finished eating or drinking.
Why It Happens:
Increased sensitivity to temperature changes occurs when the tooth’s nerves are exposed due to decay or damage. This exposure can irritate the nerves, leading to discomfort when you consume hot or cold items. A root canal can address this issue by removing the damaged nerves and sealing the tooth.
3. Swollen or Tender Gums
Swelling or tenderness in the gums around a specific tooth may be a sign of an underlying infection that requires a root canal. You might also notice a small, pimple-like bump (called a dental abscess) on the gums near the affected tooth.
Why It Happens:
Swollen or tender gums occur when bacteria from an infected tooth spread to the surrounding tissues. This infection can cause an abscess, leading to pain, swelling, and even pus discharge. A root canal can eliminate the infection, allowing the gums to heal.
4. Darkening of the Tooth
If one of your teeth becomes noticeably darker than the others, it could be a sign that the tooth’s nerve tissue is dying or has already died. This discoloration may start gradually and is often accompanied by other symptoms like pain or sensitivity.
Why It Happens:
When the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or dies, it can cause the tooth to darken due to the breakdown of the internal tissues. A root canal can remove the dead tissue and restore the tooth’s appearance with a crown or filling.
A cracked or chipped tooth can sometimes lead to the need for a root canal, especially if the damage extends deep enough to expose the tooth’s pulp. Even if the crack or chip seems minor, it’s important to get it checked out by a dentist.
Why It Happens:
Cracks and chips can allow bacteria to enter the tooth, leading to infection and inflammation of the pulp. Left untreated, this can result in the need for a root canal to prevent the infection from spreading and to save the tooth.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to seek dental care as soon as possible. At Lansdowne Place Dental, our experienced team is here to provide gentle and effective root canal treatment to relieve your pain and protect your oral health.
1. Comprehensive Examination
We begin with a thorough examination and diagnostic imaging to assess the condition of your tooth and determine whether a root canal is the best course of action.
2. Comfortable Treatment
We understand that the thought of a root canal can be intimidating, but our team is committed to making the procedure as comfortable as possible. We use advanced techniques and local anesthesia to ensure you feel relaxed and pain-free throughout the treatment.
3. Post-Treatment Care
After your root canal, we’ll provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to help you recover quickly. We’ll also schedule a follow-up visit to ensure the treated tooth is healing properly and to place a crown or filling if necessary.
4. Ongoing Support
Our friendly team is here to answer any questions you have before, during, and after your treatment. We’re dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy, pain-free smile.
Don’t Ignore the Signs—Contact Us Today
Tooth pain and other symptoms shouldn’t be ignored, as they could indicate a serious issue that requires prompt attention. If you suspect you might need a root canal, don’t wait—contact Lansdowne Place Dental today. Our expert team is here to provide the care you need to relieve your pain and protect your smile.
