Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Have you noticed a change in your teeth or gums recently? Even seemingly minor signs and symptoms can be clues that a root canal is inroot canal your future. Dr. James Bourne, your dentist in Homer, AK, shares a few common root canal signs.

Your tooth aches or throbs

Inflammation or infection in your tooth pulp can cause significant pain. Even if the pain doesn't seem that bad or comes or go, it's important to schedule an appointment with our Homer office. Although pain that only occurs intermittently may seem like a minor problem, your painful symptoms won't go away and will only worsen whether you need a root canal or have a cavity. If you do need a root canal and put off treatment, you may eventually develop a serious bacterial infection known as an abscess. Abscesses are dental emergencies that require root canal therapy and treatment with an antibiotic.

Have you noticed that your tooth hurts more if you press or chew on it or eat or drink hot, cold, or sugary foods and beverages? These symptoms may also occur if you need a root canal.

You see red when you look in your mouth

The gum surrounding your tooth may be red, inflamed, and swollen if an inflammation or infection lurks deep inside your tooth. If you have an abscess, you may also notice a little pus on the gum or a bump that resembles a pimple.

Your tooth has changed color

Changes in tooth color aren't uncommon if you need a root canal. You may notice that your tooth looks darker than other teeth due to the changes in the pulp.

You're sick

Bacterial abscesses can make you feel terrible. If you have an abscess, you may develop severe pain, swollen lymph nodes, facial swelling and a fever.

How a root canal help

Root canals relieve your pain by removing your tooth pulp. After the pulp is removed, your tooth and root canals are thoroughly cleaned and shaped, and the pulp is replaced with a rubber-based filling. Before the procedure begins, you'll receive a topical anesthetic to ensure that you remain pain-free during your entire treatment. Although your tooth will be a little weaker after root canal therapy, it will continue to function normally. Fortunately, it's easy to strengthen and protect the tooth by adding a crown.

Are you concerned about a persistent toothache? Call Dr. Bourne, your dentist in Homer, AK, at (907) 235-8574 to schedule an appointment.

Eagle Dental

Homer, AK Dentist Eagle Dental

3732 Ben Walters Lane

Homer, AK 99669 US

(907) 235-8574