Top Signs You Might Need a Root Canal – A Guide for Pasadena Residents

We all have struggled with tooth pain more or less at least once in our lifetime. But let’s be real: not every toothache goes easily. If tooth pain persists for more than a week or you notice unusual signs with the toothache such as oozing pus, it might be time to visit a dentist. 

Ignoring persistent tooth discomfort can lead to more complex dental issues that don’t go away as easily as you wish. As you ignore the pain, over time it may take a severe form that will cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars and might lead to tooth loss. 

A root canal treatment can be your savior! It can save your natural tooth and restore your oral functions. 

If you’re unaware of the signs that indicate the need for root canal therapy, stick to this blog. We will guide you to seek timely dental care to prevent further dental complications and preserve your smile.

Persistent Tooth Pain

Constant toothache is never normal. A pain that doesn’t go away in a week might signal a dental infection or decay inside the tooth. The longer you ignore the sharp, throbbing oral pain during chewing, the more complicated the issue might get. Address the pain promptly to prevent worsening teeth damage.

Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

While your teeth might feel sensitive to cold or hot food and drinks once in a while, prolonged sensitivity might suggest nerve damage. Dental sensitivity that lingers long after your meal time often points to root issues. You must not delay your root canal treatment if the oral discomfort becomes unbearable.

Swollen or Tender Gums

Tender gums can be annoying, to say the least. Gum swelling near the affected tooth may indicate tooth infection. If you notice a small pimple on the gums, it might be an abscess that requires immediate dental care. On-time oral care might prevent the spread of infection to surrounding areas.

Tooth Discoloration

While we all dread yellow teeth, a darkened or gray tooth requires fast dental treatment as it might indicate internal damage. This discoloration occurs due to dying nerves inside the tooth. You can save the tooth from extraction through professional intervention.

Deep Decay or Cracks

If you suspect you’ve dental cavities, get it treated as soon as possible. Oral decay can extend to the tooth’s pulp and might complicate the situation. A cracked or chipped tooth can also expose the pulp to bacteria. It doesn’t take long for infection to set in.

Painful Chewing or Biting

One of the most common signs you need a root canal is discomfort while chewing. It may indicate pulp inflammation that needs immediate care. Ignoring it can result in tooth loss or more invasive dental treatments.

Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste

Persistent bad breath can be a sign of a serious oral issue that you shouldn’t ignore. Halitosis or bad breath might result from bacterial buildup inside a tooth. If you experience an unpleasant taste in the mouth along with the smell, it could indicate a dental infection.

Ignoring these signs can lead to severe oral health issues. Act quickly to protect your teeth and overall health. If you notice any of these signs in Pasadena, contact us to schedule your appointment!