How To Tell If You Need Root Canal Treatment

Did you know that root canal treatments are the most common dental procedures? According to the Canadian Association of Endodontists, over 14 million root canal procedures are performed every year. However, many people have little to no knowledge about this dental procedure. So, if you’re able to relate to one or more of the following, it may be time for you to schedule a consultation with your dentist in Woodbridge.

What Is Root Canal 

Essentially, root canal treatment is a procedure used to save one’s tooth. The straightforward procedure helps stop the spread of the infection by removing the dead pulp tissue within your tooth. To be able to save a tooth with a root canal treatment, the tooth must be in otherwise good health but is suffering from a severe infection or injury. 

If you have experienced extreme tooth pain, it’s essential to know that you might not be exaggerating. Infected and or damaged teeth can cause individuals a great deal of pain. 

What are the symptoms of a root canal?

You may need to see a dentist near you in Woodbridge if you experience any of these signs: 

• Dental pain, toothache, jaw ache or headache. 
• Swelling in or around the infected area. 
• Loss of sensitivity in tooth and gum. 
• Discolouration on teeth near infection site.

1. Pain When Eating Or To Touch

If you feel a sharp pain when you smile, bite down or chew food, it may be a sign of an infection in your tooth. This pain is caused by bacteria in your mouth and you may also experience swelling and redness in the area surrounding the tooth. If left untreated, the infection could spread to other areas of your mouth and potentially throughout your body.

2. Tooth Discolouration

Tooth discolouration is a sign that you need a root canal treatment, which is different from a filling. A tooth may have an unusual colour or a brownish, black or grey spot present. It means that the nerve in your tooth has died, and there are only two things you can do, either remove the nerve or treat the pulp. 

3. Cracked Or Chipped Tooth

Cracked or chipped teeth can be painful and can lead to problems if left untreated. In some cases, a cracked tooth may not require root canal treatment. However, some cracks may be a sign that you need a root canal procedure.

Contact Your Dentist In Woodbridge

Root canal treatment should be considered if any of the following symptoms are experienced by any tooth: 

• Severe Tooth Pain 
• On-Going Jaw Pain Or Tenderness
• Sensitivity to Temperature
• Drainage From Gums

If you experience any one of these symptoms for more than one week, contact your dentist in Woodbridge immediately. If you realize you are experiencing symptoms of a root canal infection or other dental emergencies, search “Find an open dentist on weekends near me.” This will ensure you receive the best possible care. 

Now that you know know how to detect if you need root canal treatment or not, it’s time to get in touch with the dentist in Woodbridge at Mackenzie Dental Center. We look forward to serving you!