Because a root canal is a procedure that may involve treatment by a dental specialist, it is understandable that dental patients might want to recognize the symptoms that indicate if they need this procedure. Before discussing the symptoms, however, it’s important to know what a root canal is.
Beneath the enamel and dentin layers of our teeth lies a chamber filled with pulp, which contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue. This canal can become inflamed or infected due to deep decay, a crack or chip in the tooth, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or because the tooth is injured. An endodontist cleans out the root canal during treatment and fills it with a sealant. A crown or other protective restoration is usually the final step to treat the tooth.
Dr. Allenof the Phoenix Endodontic Group advises that symptoms indicating a root canal is necessary are quite varied. “There are no typical symptoms associated with root canal disease,” she says. “When there are symptoms, they can range from temperature (hot or cold) sensitivity to biting pressure to spontaneous pain. At times, there are no symptoms associated with root canal disease.”
Dr. Allen clarified that the sensitivity to hot or cold in a tooth could persist after the stimulus is removed. Also, other significant symptoms indicating infection in a tooth’s roots can include the presence of a recurring pimple on the gums or a darkening of the tooth’s appearance.
Dr. Allen added that, because so often there are no symptoms indicating a root canal is needed, it is critical to have regular dental checkups, so that your general dentist can look for hidden signs of infection or inflammation. “If a diseased tooth doesn’t receive a root canal treatment, the patient could develop pain and infection, and without treatment, they could eventually lose the tooth,” she says.
For more information on root canals contact Phoenix Endodontic Group at 602-748-4190.