When a tooth starts acting up: Throbbing, angry, or just not quite right, you might wonder, "How do I know if I need a root canal?" Think of a root canal as a dental rescue mission for your natural tooth when the inner pulp gets infected. If it’s left untreated, the infection could spread. To avoid this? Early recognition of root canal symptoms is the answer. With quick detection and timely root canal treatment, you can save that tooth and your overall oral health.
Your mouth has a way of letting you know when something’s off. These common root canal symptoms are your cues that you may require root canal treatment. Getting them checked early can prevent greater discomfort and further infection:
Persistent tooth pain (like a dull ache that just won’t let up or a sharp jab out of the blue) is a red flag you shouldn’t ignore. This pain can be constant or come in waves, but if it’s disrupting your daily life, it’s worth getting checked. Sometimes it worsens when you lie down or changes when you shift your head. If the pain radiates down your jaw, up into your ear, or makes other teeth ache, that’s another indicator you might need a root canal. Left untreated, this persistent tooth pain can progress quickly, making the eventual dental procedure more complex.
Feeling sudden tooth pain when drinking coffee or enjoying ice cream, and having that pain linger? Normally, temperature sensitivity should fade within seconds. If it sticks around for minutes, the nerve endings inside the tooth pulp may be damaged. This can happen after repeated dental procedures, a cracked tooth, or deep decay. Hot and cold sensitivity that gets progressively worse is often a warning sign that your tooth pulp is inflamed and may require root canal treatment.
A tooth turning grey, brown, or yellow, compared to its neighbours, sends a signal that the blood vessels and tissue inside might be deteriorating. Sometimes this discolouration happens slowly, making it easy to overlook until it becomes noticeable in photos or the mirror. Discolouration can stem from an injury, an infected pulp, or severe tooth decay. If caught early, a root canal procedure can save the affected tooth and restore its natural appearance with a crown.
If the gums around a tooth appear red, swollen, or tender or if you notice an unpleasant taste from a possible draining abscess, there could be further infection below the surface. Swelling can range from mild puffiness to a pronounced bump near the root tip. In some cases, facial swelling may occur. These are not symptoms to ignore; they signal that the bacterial infection has spread beyond the tooth itself.
If your tooth hurts when you bite down or touch it, the surrounding soft tissue and root tip may be inflamed. This type of pain can make eating a challenge, particularly with harder or crunchier foods. It can also be a sign that the internal tissue of the tooth is compromised, and root canal therapy might be the only way to restore comfortable chewing function.
Loose or shifting teeth are cause for concern; infection or deep decay can weaken the supporting bone structure, allowing the tooth to move slightly when you push on it with your tongue or fingers. This can progress quickly if not addressed, and in some cases, root canal treatment combined with a crown can save the tooth from extraction.
Thanks to today’s advanced dental technology and effective anesthetics, root canals today are no more uncomfortable than getting a standard filling. During the root canal procedure, your dentist will use a dental dam to isolate the tooth, remove the infected pulp, and clean and shape the root canals to eliminate bacteria. Any discomfort you feel afterwards is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Recovery after root canal surgery is generally quick. Most patients return to normal activities the same day or within 24 hours. You may experience mild soreness in the treated area for a few days. Your dentist may recommend avoiding chewing on the affected tooth until a permanent dental crown is placed to restore chewing function and protect the tooth from further damage.
The cost of root canal treatment depends on factors such as the tooth’s location, the complexity of the case, and whether additional dental work (such as a crown) is needed. Front teeth typically cost less to treat than molars because they have fewer root canals. In Canada, many dental insurance plans cover part of the treatment cost. Your dentist can provide a detailed estimate so you know what to expect.
If you’ve been dealing with persistent pain, tooth sensitivity, or other symptoms mentioned above, the best next step is to book an exam with your dentist. They can provide a proper diagnosis using X-rays and an in-person assessment to determine if you need a root canal. Ignoring the warning signs can lead to further infection, nerve damage, and even tooth loss.
Your oral health is worth protecting. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, contact East Kildonan Dental Group today to discuss root canal treatment in Winnipeg and prevent further complications.
