Root Canal Treatment - Man looking in the mirror - Alpha Dental Chester-le-Street

5 Signs that you might need a Root Canal Procedure

A root canal procedure is performed when the soft inner part of a tooth, known as the pulp, is injured or becomes inflamed or infected. The procedure is carried out by removing the damaged tooth pulp then cleaning and disinfecting the pulp space. The space is then filled with a root canal filling. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic.

You may be wondering what the signs are that you need root canal treatment. Well, here are 5 signs you may need help:

1. Severe Pain When Pressure is applied

If you experience severe pain when chewing food, or when pressure is applied on your tooth, there might be an inflammation in the root of your tooth.

2. Extremely Sensitive Teeth

If you’ve eaten anything hot or cold, and you experience prolonged sensitivity, it might be a result of the root of your tooth being damaged.

3. Darkening of the Tooth

Darkening of the tooth can indicate damage to the nerve or decay in pulp of the tooth. A root canal procedure could help save the tooth.

4. A Persistent or Recurring Pimple on the Gums

This can indicate an underlying infection which may be caused by decay in the tooth. A root canal procedure could remove the infection and save the tooth.

5. Your Tooth Cracks

There are many ways your tooth can crack. For some, it can be an accident, such as a bike mishap, that has chipped or cracked the tooth.

Whatever the cause might be, once a tooth is chipped, the nerves can be exposed and be at risk of infection. If left untreated, the infection can spread and cause pain. Once that happens, a root canal procedure is required to help fight off the infection and prevent further problems.

You may have no symptoms at all

It is possible for root canal problems to go undetected which is why it is really important to visit your dentist regularly as an x-ray will show any underlying problems.

If you are experiencing any of the signs we have mentioned, it is possible root canal treatment is required and you should schedule an appointment with a dentist. Contact our dental practice in Chester le Street to see how we can help.