7 Signs You Need a Root Canal from Your Emergency Dentist in Murphy

If your tooth hurts, it can be hard to tell what’s wrong with it. That’s why you have your emergency dentist in Murphy, TX to diagnose your tooth pain. It may be a sign that you need a root canal – a virtually painless, not scary procedure where your dentist removes any infected tissue from inside your tooth to alleviate your discomfort. Let’s look at 7 signs that you may need to get a root canal.

1. Sensitivity to Heat and Cold

One of the most common signs that you need a root canal in Murphy is sensitivity to foods and beverages with extreme temperatures. If a sip of hot coffee or a bite of cold ice cream sends a wave of pain through your mouth, visit your dentist to determine the cause of the problem.

2. Sensitivity That Lasts a Long Time

If your sensitivity only lasts for a while after you consume something hot or cold, it’s usually nothing to worry about. However, if it lasts longer than a couple days, it might be a sign that something is wrong inside the tooth.

3. Persistent Pain

Pain is one of the main signs that there is a problem with the root of your tooth. Try taking over-the-counter painkillers. If that doesn’t make your problem go away, or if your pain lasts for several days, you will need to see your dentist to figure out what the problem is. Most of the time, a root canal procedure can remove the source of your pain.

4. Swollen Gum Area

Swollen gums are typically a sign of infection in that area. If your gums are painful or inflamed, it could be a sign of gum disease or an infected tooth root. Either way, you need to see your dentist as soon as possible.

5. Dark Discoloration of the Tooth

If one of your teeth is significantly darker than the rest, that is usually a sign of a problem beneath the tooth’s surface. Visit your dentist to see if it’s simply a normal stain or a problem that requires a root canal.

6. Cracked or Chipped Tooth

Teeth cracked or chipped as a result of injury are more susceptible to infection in the pulp. This is because the nerves are more exposed than they should be. Your dentist should examine the area to determine if you need a root canal. If not, he or she may place a crown over the tooth to protect it from infection and further injury.

7. Deep Cavity

Once a cavity has reached the inner portion of your tooth, no amount of brushing and flossing will prevent it from infecting the root and causing severe pain. In this case, a root canal is the only option to remove the infected root and stop the pain.

Root canals have a reputation of being scary and painful, but they can actually solve your tooth pain. Talk to your dentist is you experience any of the symptoms listed above.

About the Author

Dr. Jacquie Nguyen earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Baylor College of Dentistry more than 20 years ago. She is a member of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and the Dallas County Dental Society. To learn more about root canals, contact Dr. Nguyen at (972)-516-2928.