Millions of teeth are saved each year with root canal treatment. This treatment eliminates bacteria from an infected pulp and saves your natural tooth from needing to be extracted. While root canal treatment may sound scary, the reality is that modern treatment is very comfortable. Treatment can usually be completed within one or two appointments, depending on the specific circumstances. At York Hill Endodontics, our endodontists will only recommend root canal treatment if necessary.

It may be challenging to identify whether you require root canal treatment. In fact, many people will not realize they need root canal treatment until the issue becomes more advanced. Keep in mind that you should always consult a dental professional for the final verdict. Therefore, we encourage regular dental checkups so that you receive the appropriate preventative treatment.

Here are some common signs that may signify a need for treatment.

1. Persistent Tooth Pain

The most unmistakable sign that something is wrong with your tooth is that you feel ongoing pain. Especially whenever you eat or touch your tooth. Furthermore, note whether the pain persists over long periods. It may be common for tooth pain to come and go. However, a sensitive tooth could be a sign of severe tooth decay or never damage. While tooth pain does not necessarily signal a need for root canal treatment, it is a sign that you should check in with a dental professional.

2. Tooth Discolouration

An infected pulp can cause your tooth to become discoloured. Damage to a tooth’s roots can result in the tooth turning a grayish-black colour. With that in mind, discolouration of your tooth can result from other causes such as poor hygiene, consuming food and drink that stains teeth, and damage beneath the tooth surface. As always, it’s best to get a discoloured tooth checked by a dental professional.

3. Swollen Gums

Another sign that you may require root canal treatment is when your gums become swollen or sensitive around the painful tooth. The swelling of your gums could result from acidic waste from the dead pulp tissue. Infected teeth could also result in gum boils (pimples on your gums), resulting in bad breath and a bad taste in your mouth!

4. Sensitivity to Heat and Cold

Do you notice a sharp pain or a prolonged dull ache when consuming hot or cold food and drink? This sensitivity to heat and cold could signify that the tooth is infected or damaged. Keep track of whether the pain lingers for long periods. It could even reach the point where you feel sensitive when not eating or drinking.

5. Tooth Feels Looser

An infected tooth may feel looser because a tooth with a dead nerve can develop an abscess (a pocket of pus) beneath its roots. As a result, the tooth may feel like there is more room to wiggle around. Once again, seek advice from a dental professional if you have reason to worry about your tooth!

Questions About Root Canal Treatment?

Do you recognize any of these symptoms in your tooth? Contact our staff or call 416-781-5251 if you have questions about root canal treatment. York Hill Endodontics has proudly served the Toronto community for more than 40 years, and we look forward to helping you as well!