In most cases, tooth pain means you will need a filling at the least to resolve a cavity. However, when that cavity extends into the inner structure of your teeth and affects the nerves, you may require a more extensive treatment. In order to get the right level of relief, you may find you need a root canal to resolve the pain you’re experiencing.
Sensitivity
One of the clear indicators you may need a root canal is tooth sensitivity. While sensitivity to heat and cold can be caused by a number of dental issues, if the problem persists, even after other commonly used treatments, it may be because the nerve of your tooth has been exposed. In this situation, your dental professional will need to tap into the canal within your tooth and complete a more extensive treatment for the best results so you can eliminate these sensitive feelings.
Other Symptoms
There are a vast number of symptoms that can indicate the need for root canal therapy. Some of the most common symptoms besides sensitivity in the affected tooth include discoloration or darkening, swelling of the gums, severe pain when eating, a constant dull ache or pressure or pain that extends into the jaw and face. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit your dentist for x-rays and a thorough evaluation to determine which type of treatment will best resolve your issues.
Causes of Your Dental Issues
Before undergoing a root canal, your dentist will first need to determine the cause so it can be resolved properly. This can include gum infections, tooth grinding, deep tooth decay, traumatic damage, repeated dental procedures and others. This will help your dentist determine if you need additional procedures or if an alternative treatment would produce better results.
If you think you may need a root canal, visit the Ala Moana Dental Group website to learn more. You can also follow them on Twitter.